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Wake Health Officials Issue Rabies Notice for Apex Residents


3/12/2008

Local health officials have issued a rabies notice for residents and visitors in the vicinity of the intersection of James Street and Tingen Road in Apex. A case of rabies was confirmed Wednesday, March 12, 2008, in a fox. A resident called the Apex Police Department and reported that the fox was acting in an unusual manner. It was later picked up by Wake County Animal Control. The fox is not known to have been in contact with any other animals.

"We don'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 Gibbie Harris, Wake County Community Health director.

"Anyone living in or visiting the area, who has been scratched or bitten by an animal they do not know, should call our clinic," Harris said. "Our nurses will be able to assess if they need to seek medical treatment."

Whenever persons are bitten or scratched by an unknown animal, they should thoroughly clean the wound with soap and warm water and contact their physician 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 urge the following:

  • Do not approach wildlife, especially during the daytime.
  • Ensure pets have current rabies vaccinations. If a pet is allowed outside, a booster vaccine is recommended. 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).

 



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