Six people in a west Wake Forest neighborhood have been exposed to rabies, according to a news release from Wake County. The county confirmed that a stray cat tested positive for the disease.
The incident occurred when a woman called 911 to report a tortoiseshell cat trapped in an area off Great Woods Road in Wake Forest, near Durham and Creedmoor roads. The woman stated that the cat had scratched and bitten her, prompting her to contact animal services.
The feral cat was subsequently placed in quarantine, but unfortunately, it later died. As a result, five other individuals and a dog were also exposed to the rabid cat.
All six individuals immediately began treatment for rabies exposure, and the dog received a rabies booster shot as a precautionary measure.
Dr. Jennifer Federico, the director of Wake County Animal Services, emphasized the importance of staying informed about such cases to protect the community. She urged residents to exercise caution and avoid approaching unfamiliar animals. Dr. Federico advised, “Please be cautious and avoid approaching unfamiliar animals. Remember: stay safe, stay informed.”
Authorities believe that the captured feral cat originated from a colony of feral cats residing behind a nearby grocery store off Old Creedmoor Road. Individuals who have come into contact with these cats are encouraged to contact the Wake County Health & Human Services Communicable Disease Program at 919-250-4462.
In light of this incident, residents are urged to report any animals behaving unusually to Animal Control officials. The following guidelines should be followed:
1. Do not approach animals that you do not know. Exercise caution and maintain a safe distance.
2. If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal of unknown vaccination history, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention.
3. Ensure your pets have a current rabies vaccination. If your pet is allowed outside, a booster vaccine is strongly recommended. Keep outdoor pets indoors until they receive the booster vaccines.
4. Do not feed stray or unknown animals, including cats and dogs. Avoid any interaction that may result in potential exposure.
5. Do not leave trash or food outside unless it is in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid to prevent attracting wild animals to your property.
6. If a pet is fed outside, do not leave food out overnight to minimize the chances of attracting animals that may carry rabies.
7. If a pet comes in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact a veterinarian immediately. Seek professional guidance to ensure the well-being of your pet.
For more information on rabies prevention, please visit wake.gov/StopRabies.
Why is it important for residents to be cautious around stray cats and avoid approaching or handling them?
E County Animal Services, urged residents in the area to be cautious around stray cats and to avoid approaching or handling them. She also advised pet owners to make sure their animals are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
Rabies is a deadly virus that can be transmitted to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. It affects the nervous system and can be fatal if left untreated.
In response to the incident, Wake County Animal Services will be conducting an investigation to determine if there are any other potentially rabid animals in the area. They will also be distributing informational flyers to residents in the neighborhood, providing them with tips on how to protect themselves and their pets from rabies.
If residents encounter a stray animal they believe may be rabid, they are encouraged to contact animal services immediately. Trained professionals will be dispatched to safely capture and test the animal for rabies.
This recent incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of rabies. By keeping pets vaccinated and avoiding contact with stray animals, residents can help protect themselves and their communities from this dangerous disease.
It’s alarming to see a rabies outbreak happening right in a neighborhood. This incident serves as a reminder for everyone to stay cautious and prioritize their safety when it comes to interacting with stray animals.