The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Local News

October 29, 2009

Three more Greenbrier rabies cases reported

By Tina Alvey

Three more positive rabies tests from Greenbrier County were returned by the State Hygienic Laboratory Tuesday, according to Amanda McMichael, sanitarian with the county health department.

The total cases in the county this year now stands at 41.

Over the past eight years, the county has typically averaged around five cases annually, most in raccoons.

The most recent cases include a skunk found dead on a Vago Road dog lot near Maxwelton, a raccoon also found dead on a dog lot at Frankford and a raccoon that was shot while attempting to get into a dog pen on property near Frankford.

Thirteen dogs, only two of which had confirmed contact with the rabid animals, were administered rabies booster shots as a result of the incidents.

All 13 were current on their rabies vaccinations.

In a press release, McMichael said, “Nearly all of the domestic pet encounters with rabid animals that have been reported to the health department this year involved dogs that were current on their rabies vaccine, which is very good news.”

McMichael noted parents need to be sure their children are taught about the prospect of rabies in wild animals, especially if the youngsters engage in outdoor activities like hunting or hiking.

Farmers should also wear protective gear when treating sick livestock.

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