Press Release
NOVEMBER 12th, 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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ROYAL
PALM BEACH, FL—A raccoon
that encountered a pit bull
in the vicinity of Royal
Palm Beach Boulevard and
Balsam Drive over the
weekend was confirmed as the
35th rabid animal this year.
The pit bull has been placed
in quarantine pending
confirmation that its rabies
vaccines are up to date.
There was no human exposure
in this incident.
The rabies alert area continues to include 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.
Animal Care and Control has
distributed literature
warning of the rabies hazard
in the immediate area
surrounding this incident.
The alert is the result of 35 rabid animal confirmations,
mostly raccoons, this year.
This latest incident
represents the largest
number of animal rabies
since 1953. A total of 14
persons have come in contact
with these animals and have
had to take a series of
rabies shots as a
precaution.
Animal Care and Control can be reached at 561-233-1200 if
abnormal animal behavior is
observed. 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.
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.
Health Department Director, Jean M. Malecki, M.D. said, “
With the number of cases of
rabies continuing to rise
and with the coastal area on
(rabies) alert I would like
all people to be especially
careful and not approach any
stray or wild animal.”
Domestic animals, dogs and cats, over four months of age are
required to be vaccinated
against rabies and wear a
current rabies license tag.
Rabies shots are also
available through a
veterinarian or by calling
Animal Care and Control at
561 233-1272.
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