FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 24, 2006

Health departments urge residents to take precautions to avoid rabies

There have been four confirmed cases of animal rabies reported to Kansas City, Jackson County and Leavenworth County Health Departments since May.

Rabies is an infectious viral disease that affects the nervous system. Symptoms start with possible pain at the site of exposure, as well as flu-like symptoms such as malaise, fever, or headache.

The two types of animal rabies are “furious” and “dumb” rabies. Animals with furious rabies are hostile, may bite and have an increase in saliva. Dumb, or paralytic rabies, is more common, with the animal becoming timid and shy, often rejecting food and having paralysis of the lower jaw and other muscles.

Human rabies cases are nearly 100% fatal once symptoms occur. It is important that you avoid being exposed to rabies, or if exposed, it is imperative that a person begins treatment as soon as possible.

“Metro area health departments are very vigilant in watching all suspicious animals for rabies,” Sylvia Burns, Leavenworth County Health Director, said. “If any animal shows symptoms, please report them to authorities immediately.” Reporting agencies may vary by jurisdiction. Please check locally for reporting procedures.

It is recommended to take the following precautions to protect yourself from contracting rabies:

• Avoid picking up or touching stray animals that are acting abnormally or appear to be ill.
• Be a responsible pet owner and keep pet vaccinations up-to-date.
• Spay or neuter pets to control stray populations and reduce aggressive tendencies.
• If you have been bitten by an animal and do not know the animal’s vaccine status, you should seek medical attention.
• Wild animals or hybrids should not be kept as pets. No rabies vaccines are licensed for use in wild animals or hybrids (offspring of wild animals crossbred with domestic animals.)
• If traveling outside the United States, be aware that rabies cases in domestic animals are more common, so exercise caution with animals when traveling abroad.

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