Caution: Rabies found in Casar and Shelby

Press Release | Cleveland County Health Department

CASAR / SHELBY  – On Jan. 15, the Cleveland County Health Department was notified of two skunks that tested positive for rabies. The animals were found on Haywood Road in Casar and on Marion Street in Shelby.

Any person exposed to potentially infectious saliva from an animal should contact their healthcare provider or CCHD for a rabies risk assessment. You may contact us at 980-484-5169 or 980-484-5100.

Rabies occurs throughout North Carolina. Anyone that sees an animal with unusual behavior should call Cleveland County Animal Services at 704-481-9884.

Rabies is a fatal yet preventable disease if post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is administered. Rabies is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal or via contamination of open wounds or mucus membranes with potentially infectious material such as saliva.

(Rabies continued below)

Rabies Prevention:

1. Vaccinate pets. NC State Law requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be kept currently vaccinated against rabies and must wear a rabies tag.

2. If pets are exposed to rabies, they should receive a booster dose of rabies vaccine if they are currently vaccinated at the time of exposure. If pets are not currently vaccinated against rabies when exposed, the animals will be euthanized or quarantined for six months in accordance with state law.

3. Seek medical guidance from your healthcare provider or CCHD if you believe you have been exposed to rabies.

4. Limit stray and feral animals. In Shelby, Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs, and Grover all dogs must be kept on a leash. Persons should not approach stray or feral dogs or cats. Feral cat colonies should be intensively monitored, and their location reported to Cleveland County Animal Services.

5. Leave wildlife alone. Raccoons and other wildlife serve as the reservoir for rabies in North Carolina.

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This is a press release.

The Shelby Independent