Bluefield Daily Telegraph, Bluefield, WV

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October 7, 2009

Humans exposed to rabid cat in Spanishburg getting medical treatment

By GREG JORDAN

GREEN VALLEY — A cat found in the Spanishburg area has tested positive for rabies, making it the third case in Mercer County to be documented this year, the Mercer County Health Department reported Wednesday.

Several people and a pet were exposed to the cat, said Administrator Melody Rickman, RN. The exposed persons are now undergoing treatment.

A fox found in Oakvale tested positive for rabies in early September, and raccoon in Oakvale was found to be rabid during the spring, said Doris Irwin, RN.

“We’re getting a variety of animals this year,” Irwin said. During previous years, most of the animals testing positive for rabies were raccoons. The cat tested positive on Oct. 1.

The fact the latest rabid animal to be found in Mercer County was a cat emphasizes the importance of getting dogs and cats vaccinated, Rickman said. In West Virginia, the first rabies vaccination is due when pets are four to six months old, and it is good for one year. Rabies vaccinations are the required every two years under state law.

Besides getting pets vaccinated, it’s important to avoid attracting wild animals and stray dogs or cats, Rickman said. For instance, pet food and exposed garbage should not be left outside since it can draw stray animals.

Pet owners should keep their dogs or cats on their property, since being allowed to roam increases their chances of being exposed to rabies, Rickman said. Allowing unvaccinated stray pets around a home also increases the risks of humans being exposed to the disease.

Residents should also be wary of wild animals. Rabid animals show changes in “expected” behavior, which is a consistent symptom, Rickman said. Animals may become shy and hide, may become unusually approachable or may become aggressive and suddenly attack.

Other signs include staggering, weakness, paralysis, inability to eat or drink, drooling, convulsions and frothing at the mouth.

If a person is bitten, the bite should be washed with lots of soap and water, Rickman said. A doctor should be contacted immediately.

If the animal is wild, confine it if this can be done safely. Call the state Department of Natural Resources, and kill the animal only as a last resort; avoid damaging the head if possible, since brain matter will be needed for testing.

The Mercer County Health Department can be reached at 304-324-8367.

— Contact Greg Jordan at gjordan@bdtonline.com

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