Person bitten by rabid cat in Orange County

Positive Rabies Tests in Orange County

Orange County Animal Services has reported two confirmed rabies cases, as indicated by the North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health.

The first case occurred on April 4, when a raccoon bit a dog in the Chapel Hill area near Dixie Lane. The dog is currently under the care of animal control for treatment.

The second incident took place on April 7, involving a cat that bit a person near Holiday Park Road in Hillsborough.

According to OCAS, this cat lived outdoors but was looked after by someone. The individual who was bitten is now receiving necessary rabies prophylaxis.

How is Rabies Exposure Managed?

A disease specialist from the Orange County Health Department assesses the risks associated with rabies exposure for people. The decision on post-exposure prophylaxis, which protects against rabies, is based on a thorough evaluation of the circumstances involved.

Rabies spreads through saliva, most often via bites, scratches, or direct contact with mucous membranes like the eyes or mouth.

For pets, if exposure is suspected, dogs, cats, and ferrets with valid rabies vaccination records must receive a booster shot within 96 hours, or four days. Conversely, unvaccinated pets may face euthanasia or be quarantined for up to four months, while ferrets can be quarantined for up to six months, according to Orange County guidelines.

It’s important to note that all mammals can be infected with and can transmit rabies. In North Carolina and elsewhere, raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats are common carriers of the virus.

Bats, in particular, serve as a host species for rabies in various regions. Most human rabies cases in the U.S. are linked to bats. If there’s any possibility of exposure through a bat, residents should contact their animal control program immediately.

If a rabies exposure occurs outside regular hours, individuals should call 911 to reach an Animal Control Officer promptly.

Rabies is a serious viral infection that can be fatal for both animals and humans. Animal Control has reminded the public to exercise caution when interacting with wildlife or unfamiliar animals outdoors.