FIRST CASE OF RABIES REPORTED IN FOUR YEARS IN CARY

CARY , NC – More than four years since its last case, Town of Cary Animal Control officials confirm that this year’s first case of rabies has been reported in Cary . The incident occurred on Tuesday, July 11 when a man was bitten while attempting to pick up a raccoon near his home on the 300 block of Ridgecrest Road in Cary .  Because raccoons are at high risk of rabies, Cary ’s Animal Control officers had to euthanize the animal and transport it for testing at the State Laboratory of Public Health in Raleigh . The Town of Cary was notified the afternoon of Thursday, July 13 that the raccoon was infected with the rabies virus, and officials have notified the victim about the raccoon’s diagnosis.

"It is so important that citizens guard themselves and their animals against this disease," said Officer Shelly Davis of the Cary Police Department’s Animal Control Division.  “The best way to minimize exposure is to avoid contact with wild animals.” 

Officers are distributing rabies alerts to homes near the location of the incident.  The flyers contain information on ways to guard against the disease. 

Pet owners should always use caution when dealing with any pet that may have come in contact with a suspicious animal. Wear gloves and other protective clothing when helping injured pets, and stay away from any bodily fluids, especially saliva. As always, 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.

State law requires all cats and dogs four months and older be vaccinated against rabies and vaccination tags be displayed at all times. For dogs and cats that were previously vaccinated, subsequent vaccinations are good for three years, but proof of vaccination must be able to be shown.

If you suspect rabies, contact Cary Animal Control immediately at (919) 319-4517 or call your local veterinarian.

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