Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, November 11, 1993 TAG: 9311110069
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-1 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: STEPHEN FOSTER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
After sending the skunk to a lab in Abingdon, the report came back positive Wednesday, the first case this month, said Lowell Hartley, environmental health manager with the New River Health District.
There were only 19 cases of rabies-infected animals reported in all of 1992, said Hartley.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is transmitted through the saliva of the infected animal and is invariably fatal once symptoms develop. Like most reports, this weekend's incident involved a wild animal that wandered into a domestic setting and decided to fight. Most cases involve racoons or skunks, Hartley said.
When infected, "they lose all fear of man and dogs and they'll come into the yards," he said.
Both dogs had had their vaccinations, Hartley said. They will be given booster shots and probably confined for 90 days as a precautionary measure.
If someone sees an animal and suspects it may be rabid, or doesn't appear to be afraid, Hartley advised quite simply: "Don't pick it up and pet it."
The health department recommends the following tips as precautions against rabies infection: Make sure pets are up-to-date with their vaccinations. Stay away from wild animals. Avoid stray animals or domestic animals that appear sick or act strangely. Never approach a sick or injured animal you don't know; call an animal control officer. Don't leave pet food or garbage outside, where it can attract hungry wild animals. Close holes and cap chimneys to prevent animals from entering buildings.
If bitten, wash the wound with soap and water and call a doctor for advice on treatment. If possible, confine the animal and contact an animal control officer or the police. For more rabies information, call your local health department.
by CNB