In a shocking turn of events, a hiker in Johnston, Rhode Island, displayed incredible bravery and resourcefulness when he single-handedly took down a rabid coyote with his bare hands. This heroic act came after the coyote had attacked two individuals in separate incidents just days apart.
The first attack occurred on Thursday when a dog walker was viciously assaulted by the coyote on Peeptoad Road in Scituate. Then, on Friday, a hiker was bitten on the leg while exploring the woods near Bellfield Drive in Johnston. These incidents left the community on high alert and authorities scrambling to ensure the safety of its residents.
However, it was the hiker’s quick thinking and extraordinary physical strength that ultimately put an end to the coyote’s rampage. Pinning the animal down by its neck, he cut off its air supply, effectively neutralizing the threat. The hiker’s actions were not only courageous but also potentially life-saving, as rabies is a serious viral disease that can be fatal without proper treatment.
Following the incident, the Department of Environmental Management police took custody of the coyote’s carcass for testing. The results confirmed what many had feared: the coyote had indeed been infected with rabies. This marks only the third documented case of rabies in Rhode Island since 1994, highlighting the rarity of such occurrences in the state.
Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. Without prompt medical intervention, it is almost always fatal. State health officials are urging anyone who may have come into contact with the coyote to seek immediate medical attention and receive a post-exposure vaccine series. This includes individuals who have previously received pre-exposure prophylaxis.
Pet owners are also advised to be vigilant and ensure that their animals’ rabies vaccinations are up to date. All dogs, cats, and ferrets in Rhode Island are required by law to have current vaccinations against rabies. Vaccinating pets not only protects them from contracting the disease but also prevents potential exposure for humans.
It is worth noting that bats in Rhode Island are also known carriers of the bat strain of rabies. These strains are highly transmissible to humans, and preventive vaccination is often recommended even without a visible wound if there has been close proximity to a bat. State health officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions and seeking medical advice in such situations.
The hiker’s heroic act serves as a reminder of the bravery and resilience that can be found within individuals when faced with adversity. His quick actions not only protected himself but potentially saved countless others from harm. The community of Johnston can now rest a little easier knowing that this rabid coyote has been eliminated, thanks to the unwavering determination of one courageous hiker.
For more information on how to prevent rabies and ensure the safety of yourself and your pets, please visit the Rhode Island Department of Health’s website. Stay informed and stay safe!
