ROWAN COUNTY – In a recent improvement, Rowan County Public Health authorities have confirmed {that a} cat in Mt. Ulla examined constructive for rabies. The contaminated animal was discovered off Highway 801. This discovery is a reminder of the significance of remaining alert and taking applicable precautions when encountering wild or stray animals.
Possible indicators of rabies
Rabies is a viral illness that impacts the central nervous system and might be deadly if left untreated. It is primarily transmitted by means of the saliva of an contaminated animal, normally by means of a chew. Symptoms of rabies in animals could embody:
• Daytime exercise in animals usually lively at night time
• Staggering, weak spot and paralysis
• A change within the sound within the animal’s voice
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• Inability to eat or drink
• Drooling or frothing on the mouth
Should you encounter a wild or stray animal displaying any of those indicators, it’s essential to train excessive warning and keep away from approaching or making an attempt to deal with the animal. Instead, please comply with the steps beneath to report a probably contaminated animal.
• Call the Rowan County Animal Shelter at 704-216-7768 and choose possibility 2 to be linked to an animal enforcement officer.
o Hours of operation: Monday- Friday 8 a.m. to five p.m.
• All calls exterior of the operation hours of the Rowan County Animal Shelter must be made to 911
Reducing the danger of publicity
Furthermore, residents are suggested to take the next precautions to cut back the danger of publicity to rabies:
1. Avoid contact with unfamiliar animals, particularly wildlife comparable to raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks.
2. Ensure that your pets, together with dogs and cats, are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
3. Do not feed or try to deal with wild animals, even when they look like tame or pleasant.
4. Securely seal rubbish cans and meals sources to stop attracting wildlife to your property.
5. Teach kids to by no means method or contact wild animals and to report any encounters to an grownup instantly.
What to do if bitten
If you or a beloved one are bitten or scratched by a wild animal, totally clear the wound with cleaning soap and water and search medical consideration instantly. Prompt medical remedy, together with post-exposure prophylaxis, can forestall the onset of rabies in people.
The Rowan County Public Health Department will proceed to observe the state of affairs intently and are working to make sure the protection and well-being of the neighborhood. For updates and extra data, please go to for extra details about Rabies.
