Press Release
AUGUST 1st, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR
PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3038
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KAREN BUCHAN
ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL
561-233-1280
FAX:561-233-1234
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PALM BEACH COUNTY,
FL-A Rabies Alert for coastal Palm Beach County continues as the 21st rabid animal, a raccoon, captured in Highland Beach, tested positive for rabies today. The rabies alert area includes all coastal regions with an eastern boundary of the Atlantic Ocean, and a western boundary along US 441 from Boca Raton to Lantana and west again to Flying Cow Road where the line goes north to Martin County.
The alert is the result of 21 rabid animal confirmations, mostly raccoons, this year.
2002 had a record 27 animal rabies cases. A total of 12 persons have come in contact with these animals and had to take a series of rabies shots as a precaution.
This latest case involved the sighting of a raccoon acting neurotically near Grand Bay Court in Highland Beach and Animal Care and Control capturing the raccoon on July 29, 2003. Test results from the Palm Beach County Health Department Laboratory confirmed the rabies late Thursday July 31, 2003.
Animal Care and Control can be reached at 561-233-1200 if abnormal raccoon behavior is observed or if a person is bitten they should report to the nearest hospital for treatment and call the Palm Beach County Health Department at 561-840-4500.
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.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can be prevented but not cured. The virus attacks the nerves and brain tissue of warm-blooded animals including people.
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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