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For Release Friday,
12th July, 2002 |
CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR |
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PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3038
DOROTHY DARVILLE, ANIMAL
CARE & CONTROL,
561-233-1215
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PALM BEACH COUNTY—Two more animals were confirmed with rabies today bringing the yearly total to 18, four more than all of 2001.
The latest incident occurred on Wednesday July 10, 2002 when a male was attacked by a red fox west of Military Trail in Western Lake Worth. The man was able to defend himself by killing the fox but not before being bitten. He has been put on preventive rabies shots and will be completing the five shot series over the next few weeks. According to Dr. Jean M. Malecki, Palm Beach County Health Department Director, “ In spite of these increased findings the latest case is only the third human to be exposed thus far this year.” Dr. Malecki went on to warn residents about feeding wildlife, and other stray animals in addition to avoiding any contact. Securing garbage cans and other containers around the house can also help eliminate food sources and reduce the risk of non-domestic animals being around humans.
The other animal, a raccoon, was captured by Animal Care and control
off Glades road in Boca Raton, also on Wednesday, and confirmed to be rabid from the Florida State Lab along with the fox on Friday.
The 18 confirmed animal rabies cases have been found from Boca Raton to Jupiter but have not been concentrated in any one area. Thus, no specific area alerts have been issued.
Domestic animals, dogs and cats, over four months of age are required to be vaccinated against rabies and wear a current rabies license tag. Shots can be obtained through a veterinarian or by calling animal Care and Control at
561 233-1272.
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