BURLINGTON – The North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh has confirmed Alamance County’s fifth rabies case for the year.
On August 5th, a raccoon fought with two dogs that were not up-to-date on rabies vaccinations on Parker Street in Graham. Parker Street is less than a mile from downtown Graham. Residents in this area with outside pets should examine pets that may have come in contact with the raccoon for any wounds and notify animal control or the health department’s Environmental Health office at (336) 570-6367 if they have questions or concerns.
“It is North Carolina law that cats and dogs be vaccinated against rabies and over the past two years, 33 dogs were euthanized after being exposed to rabid animals. If their vaccinations had been up-to-date, their lives could have been spared,” stated Environmental Health Director, Carl Carroll. “Rabies vaccination protects not only your pet, but also helps to protect you and your family.”
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.