Rabid cat in northern Berks scratched a minimum of 1 individual

(MediaNews Group)

The Animal Rescue League of Berks County introduced Friday night, Sept. 15, that it was notified by the state {that a} cat trapped in Longswamp Township has examined constructive for rabies.

“The ARL was contacted by a resident of Longswamp Township who stated that they had trapped a cat that was showing several behavioral symptoms consistent with the rabies virus,” mentioned Hayden Carroll, supervisor of the ARL’s Department of Animal Protection and a Pennsylvania humane police officer, within the announcement. “At this time, we know that the cat scratched the finder who has already sought the proper medical treatment. If anyone else was bitten or scratched by an animal in this area they should seek medical attention immediately.”

The ARL didn’t establish the one that was scratched and trapped the cat, however famous it was within the space of Timber Drive, which has an Alburtis mailing tackle and isn’t removed from the Lehigh County line.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a rabid animal might act surprisingly. They could also be aggressive and check out biting people or different animals they usually might drool excessively. They can also act timid or overly tame. Infected animals might have issues swallowing and have bother transferring.

“Residents should be alert for other animals in the area with signs of rabies and should not allow their pets outside unsupervised,” Carroll mentioned. “If you suspect that an animal is infected with rabies, please call immediately the animal control provider of your municipality or your local police department and do not approach the animal by any means.”

The ARL famous that Longswamp Township shouldn’t be one of many 12 Berks County municipalities it’s contracted with in 2023 to supply animal management providers.

“We got involved because the person called and advised that none of the resources we sent was willing to help, so we stepped up,” mentioned José Joel Delgado-Rivera, the ARL’s chief communications officer, when contacted Friday evening. “In addition to that, since we have a veterinary team and we constantly manage strays, we took the responsibility to help the state with reporting rabies cases in the area.”

He mentioned the ARL euthanized the sick cat and submitted a pattern to the state to be examined. Animals can’t be examined for rabies whereas they’re alive.