Rabid Racoon Found In Flomaton

March 24, 2016

Officials in Escambia County, AL, are urging local residents to take precautions against rabies. The warning comes  after a recent positive confirmation of rabies in a racoon  found in a residential neighborhood in Flomaton.

The following precautions should be taken to avoid possible exposure to rabies:

  • Do not allow pets to run loose; confine them within a fenced-in area or with a leash.
  • Do not leave out uneaten pet food or scraps around your house.
  • Do not illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets.
  • Don’t go near domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner.
  • Instruct children not to go near any non-domesticated animal regardless of its behavior.
  • Advise children to tell an adult if they are bitten or scratched by an animal.

A person who is bitten or scratched by an animal should wash wounds immediately with mild soap and water, apply first aid, and seek medical attention or contact the county health department as soon as possible. Rabies is preventable in humans exposed to a positive animal if special medical treatment is provided in a timely manner.

Avoiding direct contact with wildlife is the primary protection from rabies. In addition, vaccinating domesticated animals also reduces the risk of exposure to rabies. Rabies vaccination not only protects the animals from rabies, it helps protect the owners, family members, and other pets as well. Alabama state law requires that all dogs, cats and ferrets must be kept current with rabies vaccination. Rabies vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock if recommended by a veterinarian.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News