Press Release
OCTOBER 17th, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
|
CONTACT: TIM O’CONNOR
PHONE:561-355-3576
FAX:561- 355-3038
|
|
KAREN BUCHAN
ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL
561-233-1280
FAX:561-233-1234
|
Lantana, FL—The 31st
rabid animal, a raccoon, was
confirmed positive today.
This latest case occurred
near High Ridge Road and had
no human exposure. The
raccoon was observed falling
down and viciously attacking
itself when captured. 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
31 rabid animal
confirmations, mostly
raccoons, this year. This
latest incident represents
the largest number of animal
rabies since 1953. A total
of 13 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 raccoon or fox
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.
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.
<<
Back to Press
|
