Franklin
County officials reported its 10th confirmed animal rabies case of the year.
On
Wednesday, staff with Franklin County Animal Services said they have been
working to make sure infected animals are managed safely, and that the
community is aware of positive cases in the area. Officials said they work
closely with Franklin County Health Department to make sure rules for
quarantining and isolation of animals are being closely followed.
“We’ve
already doubled the number of confirmed rabies cases in Franklin County this
year, more than all of 2024, and this season is not even close to being over,”
said Scott LaVigne, Franklin County Health Director.
Six
of the 10 cases involved skunks, which has been consistent with previous years. Officials said this year has also
included two raccoons, one fox and a bat.
Anyone
that comes into contact with an infected animal or believes they have been
exposed should seek medical attention right away.
“Rabies
is nearly 100% fatal in humans once you show symptoms of infection, so we
strictly follow the guidelines,” LaVigne said. “Today, a series of four to five shots is
sufficient to prevent rabies in people.”
Pet
owners should also protect their furry loved ones by making sure they are up to
date with their rabies vaccine.
“In
nearly every rabies case this year, where domestic animals were exposed, some
pets had never had a rabies shot,” said Jerry Jones, Interim Animal Services
Manager. “That’s a conversation no one wants to have with a family.”
Officials
offered tips to best limit pet’s exposure to rabies:
- Vaccinate your pets against rabies and keep the vaccinations current.
- Keep pets inside. Supervise pets outside and keep dogs on a leash.
- Do not feed pets outside. Pet food and mulch attract wildlife.
- Do not feed wildlife, feral cats, or feral dogs.
- Secure garbage cans with wildlife-proof lids.
WRAL News has a guide online with tips to minimize the risk of rabies.
Officials
advise calling 911 to contact Animal Services if they see any animal showing
rabies symptoms. People should keep a safe distance away from the animal but
watch out for where the animal is until Animal Services Officers arrive.
Dogs
and cats are required to have an updated rabies vaccination. If a pet is not
vaccinated or is due for a vaccine, pet owners are advised to contact their
veterinarian.
Franklin
County Animal Shelter is also offering a vaccine event on Saturday, August 23,
from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The cost for a rabies vaccine is $15.
For
livestock and other pets, owners should contact their veterinarian for rabies
vaccination information and prevention.
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