A recent case of canine rabies in Oakland County brings renewed consideration to the chance of rabies and the significance of stopping the unfold of the illness.
State well being officers confirmed rabies in canine stays from Oakland County on Wednesday, within the first recognized case reported from Oakland County in recent historical past, officers stated.
The Oakland County case
A stray canine from Detroit, transported to a Farmington Hills veterinary Hospital examined constructive for rabies, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services discovered. The incident started when an Oakland County resident introduced home the canine for 3 days and took the canine to the veterinary hospital after the canine started demonstrating neurological signs on Oct. 25.
“This rabies case is a reminder of how vital it is for dog owners to have their pets vaccinated to prevent the spread of disease,” stated Bob Gatt, supervisor of Oakland County Animal Control. “It not only protects other pets but children and adults, as well.”
Veterinary workers euthanized the canine and despatched its stays for rabies testing. The canine didn’t chunk anybody, however the individual who discovered the canine was uncovered to its saliva, officers stated.
State rabies legislation
Michigan requires rabies vaccinations for dogs and ferrets, and recommends vaccination for cats and home livestock. Vaccination represents a key device in stopping the unfold of rabies, defending pets and people.
Rabies well being dangers
While uncommon amongst people within the U.S., the deadly illness poses vital well being points to these contaminated. The viral illness infects the central nervous system and may result in illness within the mind and loss of life.
Potential carriers
A wide range of mammals can unfold rabies, together with dogs, bats, raccoons, squirrels, skunks, cats, foxes, rodents and rabbits. Over 90% of reported animal circumstances within the U.S. happen amongst wildlife, in keeping with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
How to keep away from an infection
Maintaining common veterinary visits and vaccinations, spaying or neuturing, and supervising pets can forestall the unfold of rabies, in keeping with the CDC. Experts additionally suggest limiting pets’ publicity to wild animals, conserving rubbish safe and closed and avoiding leaving meals and water outside for pets unattended.
“If a person or a pet is exposed to any wild or unknown animal, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water, then seek medical or veterinary attention immediately, even if the animal was previously vaccinated,” stated Oakland County Medical Director Russell Faust.
Oakland County presents free rabies vaccines for dogs with the acquisition of a canine license on the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center on Tuesday mornings.
