Injured kitten highlights need for Rabies vaccination
Additional Confirmed Rabies Case in Davidson County – Community Awareness Needed
On Monday, September 12, 2022, the Davidson County Health Department received lab results from the State Lab of Public Health confirming a positive rabies case in Denton.
Reports provided to the health department indicate that a South Denton resident sought care for an injured kitten found on the resident’s property on August 26, 2022. The resident believed the kitten was from a litter of feral cats in the area and did not know what animal caused the injury to the kitten.
After evaluation by a veterinarian it was determined that the animal was approximately 2 months old which is too young to receive vaccinations. The kitten was treated for injuries and went home with the resident. On September 8, the kitten was brought back to the veterinarian clinic with reports of odd behavior and changes in temperament. Upon evaluation, it was concluded that rabies was a probable cause of the behavior change and that diagnostic testing was necessary. On September 12, the report came back positive for rabies. The cause of the initial injury to the kitten remains unknown.
All human contacts to this animal have been notified and have started postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent against rabies. All Davidson County residents should remain vigilant to protect themselves and their pets against the rabies virus. A notice will be mailed to those within a one-mile radius of this incident to alert them to the potential threat of rabies in their area and signs to look out for.
This situation is a stark reminder to always take precautions if you see stray or wild animals around your home or neighborhood, regardless of the age of the animal. Do not feed or handle animals that are unknown to you. Do not touch stray or wild animals with your bare hands, as the rabies virus is 99% fatal in humans who do not seek immediate postexposure treatment.
North Carolina law requires that all domestic dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies by 4 months of age and kept current. If your pet comes in contact with a wild animal contact your veterinarian immediately.
The Davidson County Health Department will host a rabies vaccination clinic on September 22, 2022 at the Davidson County Health Department. The clinic will provide vaccines from 6:00pm – 8:00pm.
Animals must be at least 3 months of age to be eligible and vaccines will cost $9 per animal.
