BURLINGTON – The North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh has confirmed Alamance County’s sixth rabies case for the year.
On August 17th, a skunk fought with two dogs that were not up-to-date on rabies vaccinations on Highway 49 North near John Lewis Rd. Residents in this area with outside pets should examine pets for any wounds that may have come in contact with the skunk and notify animal control or the health department’s Environmental Health office at (336) 570-6367 if they have questions or concerns.
“North Carolina law states that cats and dogs be vaccinated against rabies,” stated Environmental Health Director Carl Carroll. “Over the past two years, 35 dogs were euthanized after being exposed to rabid animals; this could have been prevented if their vaccinations had been up-to-date.”
If you are bitten by any animal:
- Wash the wound with soap and running water for ten (10) minutes and seek medical attention immediately.
- Write down the location of the animal and a description of the animal to provide to animal control. If the animal is someone’s pet, also get the owner’s name and address. Give this information to animal control or the health department.
- Do not try to catch any wild animal
For more information or questions about rabies control and vaccinations requirements, contact the health department’s Environmental Health office at (336) 570-6367.