FEATURE: Wake Health Officials Issued Rabies Notice for Apex Residents

2/27/2009

Local health officials issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors in the vicinity of the intersection of U.S. 64 and Laura Duncan Road in Apex. A case of rabies was confirmed Friday, February 27, 2009, in a raccoon.

Animal Control officers were concerned about possible exposure of unvaccinated animals in the area. Any one who saw an animal acting in an unusual manner was urged to call Wake County Animal Control at 919-856-6911.

"We didn't want to alarm residents in the Apex area, but they should be aware of this case and of the potential for exposure to themselves, family members and their pets," said Michael Williams, Animal Control director for Wake County.

Whenever persons are bitten or scratched by an unknown animal, they should thoroughly clean the wound with soap and warm water and contact their physicians or Wake County Community Health immediately. The daytime phone number for Wake County Community Health is 919-250-4462; the after-hours number is 919-839-3059.

Wake County Animal Control officials urged the following:
· Residents should not approach wildlife, especially during the daytime.
· Residents should ensure their pets have a current rabies vaccinations. If a pet is allowed outside, a booster vaccine is recommended within 3 days. Outdoor pets should be kept inside until they receive booster vaccines.
· Do not leave trash or food outside unless in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid.
· If a pet is fed outside, do not leave food out overnight.
· Do not leave pets outdoors unattended.
· If your pet comes in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact your veterinarian immediately.

To report animal complaints and stray animals:
· In Wake County (except Cary, Garner, Holly Springs and Raleigh), call 919-212-PETS (7387)
· In Cary, call 919-319-4517
· In Garner, call 919-772-8896
· In Holly Springs, call 919-557-9111
· In Raleigh, call 919-831-6311

More information on rabies may be found online through the N.C. Division of Public Health (www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/rabies.html) or through the National Center for Infectious Diseases(www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/rabies).

 

back to current news items