NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 28, 1998

SECOND CASE OF RABIES THIS YEAR REPORTED IN CARY

CARY, NC -- The Town of Cary’s Animal Control Division confirms that the second case of rabies this calendar year has been reported in southeast Cary. The incident occurred early Monday morning, July 27, 1998, when a woman living in the 2000 block of Trellis Green in Crescent Arbor Apartments reported a bat in her home. Because Cary Animal Control does not operate on a 24-hour basis, the bat was captured by Wake County Animal Control and tested at the State lab in Raleigh. The Town of Cary was notified late Monday that the bat was infected with the rabies virus.

Since rabies can be transmitted in feces as well as saliva, the woman who reported the bat is undergoing treatment for the disease even though she is not aware of having been bitten. In addition, Cary officials believe that the woman’s indoor cat has not had its regular rabies vaccinations and, therefore, must be quarantined or destroyed. However, the woman has, thus far, refused to cooperate with Cary officials in this matter.

"Many people unfortunately still see rabies as something that only happens when you are outdoors or live near the woods," said Lt. Pat Scaringelli of the Cary Police Department. "It is imperative that all pets, including those who stay indoors, are properly vaccinated against this disease."

State law requires that all cats and dogs 4 months and older be vaccinated against rabies and that they display their vaccination tags at all times. Tags are also helpful in identifying and locating lost pets. For dogs and cats that were previously vaccinated, subsequent vaccinations are good for three (3) years, but proof of vaccination must be able to be shown.

Pet owners must use caution when dealing with any pet that may have been harmed by a suspicious animal. Wear gloves and other protective clothing when helping your injured pet, and stay away from any bodily fluids, especially saliva. As always, avoid any wild animal and have all pets--cats, dogs, and horses-- vaccinated against the disease. Seek help immediately if you or your pets are bitten by any animal, and notify officials as soon as possible.

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PRIMARY CONTACTS: Lt. Pat Scaringelli, Cary Police, 460-4919

Bill Coleman, Town Manager, 469-4002

Susan Moran, Public Information Officer, 460-4951