Rabies is active in our area.
What can you do to protect yourself, your pets and your family?
- Avoid contact with wildlife (e.g., bats, skunks, raccoons, foxes)
- Vaccinate your dogs and cats for rabies
- If you suspect any animal has rabies, do not go near it; contact your local animal control service or the police
Have a bat in your home?
- Do not attempt to touch it or catch it
- Call your local animal control agency
If you have direct contact with the bat, call your family doctor, or visit your local hospital emergency department immediately.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a fatal virus that affects mammals, including humans, and is most commonly spread by wild animals like raccoons, skunks, foxes and bats. Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite. However, saliva can also enter the body through scratches, open wounds or mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.