Press Release
SEPTEMBER 22nd, 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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GULFSTREAM, FL—The 28th
rabid animal, a raccoon, was
confirmed positive today.
This latest case occurred
near Driftwood Landing and
had no human exposure. Two
Jack Russell Terriers fought
and killed the raccoon. Both
dogs had current rabies
vaccines and will be placed
in an at home quarantine for
45 days for observation. 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 28 rabid animal confirmations,
mostly raccoons, this year.
This latest incident breaks
the record set in 2002. 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.
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