Residents in a Raleigh neighborhood are on high alert following a confirmed case of rabies. A raccoon that bit a dog this past week in the Windsor Trail area has tested positive for the deadly virus, prompting an urgent warning from public health officials.
The incident occurred on Windsor Trail within the 27615 ZIP code. Wake County Public Health and Wake County Animal Control confirmed the positive rabies test result on Friday, following the bite incident earlier in the week on Thursday.
Fortunately, the dog involved was current on its rabies vaccination. As a precautionary measure, the dog received a booster shot after the encounter and is reported to be doing well. This outcome underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date vaccinations for pets, serving as a vital reminder for all pet owners in the community.
Wake County officials are using this event to stress the seriousness of rabies as a public health concern. Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters highlighted the situation, stating, “Rabies is a serious public health concern, and we’re grateful that this pet was protected through vaccination.” The incident serves as an undeniable prompt for pet guardians to ensure vaccinations are current.
To minimize the risk of rabies exposure for both people and animals, county officials strongly recommend several preventative measures:
Maintain Distance: Always keep a safe distance from wild animals and animals you do not know.
Immediate Wound Care: If you or a pet are bitten or scratched by an animal, especially one with an unknown vaccination history, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek prompt medical or veterinary attention. Time is critical when dealing with potential rabies exposure.
Keep Vaccinations Current: Ensure all pets, including dogs, cats, and ferrets, have current rabies vaccinations as required by law.
Consider Boosters: For pets allowed outdoors, a booster vaccine is highly recommended if contact with a potentially rabid animal has occurred. Officials advise keeping pets indoors until they receive this booster following potential exposure.
Avoid Feeding Strays: Do not feed or interact with stray or unknown animals, including cats and dogs, as this can increase potential exposure risks.
Secure Food Sources: Prevent attracting wild animals to your property by securing trash and other food sources outdoors in tightly closed containers.
Remove Outdoor Pet Food: If you feed pets outdoors, remove any uneaten food overnight.
Contact Your Vet: If your pet has any contact with an animal that could potentially be rabid, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance and evaluation.
Wake County is reaching out to anyone who may have had contact with a raccoon in the affected vicinity. Residents who believe they may have encountered a raccoon should contact Wake County Communicable Disease at 919-250-4462. Immediate medical attention is imperative if any biting or scratching was involved. This local incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for rabies and the effectiveness of vaccination and vigilance in preventing its spread.
