What kind of animals spread rabies?
Any mammal, wild or domestic can carry the rabies virus. Wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes, and coyotes are much more likely to carry rabies. However, pets or farm animals such as dogs, cats, cattle, or horses can pass rabies on to people as well. To prevent the spread of rabies many pets such as dogs, cats, and ferrets are vaccinated for the disease. If there is ever a bite exposure, if possible, it will be important to know the animal’s vaccination status. What should you do if you are bitten? Following any bite by a rabid animal it is important to immediately wash the area with soap and water. Scott County Health Department recommends that you report the animal bite with Scott County Humane Society Animal Control and then immediately contact your physician. Is there a special concern about bats and rabies? YES. In fact most rabies cases today are caused by the rabies virus carried by bats. If you are bitten by a bat, wash the area and contact your doctor, as you wou
