Animal Rabies Cases in Monterey County

[Karen Smith]

Monterey County Health Officials would like to remind residents to be cautious of wildlife

and to vaccinate their dogs and cats against rabies.

 

Residents of Monterey County are reminded about the continuous public health threat presented by rabid animals in our community.  A dog from the North Monterey County area tested positive for rabies this week.  At this time, it is unknown how the dog was exposed to rabies.  A skunk from the North Monterey County area also tested positive for rabies this month.  The Health Department is conducting an investigation to ensure that all potentially exposed individuals and animals receive appropriate treatment to prevent the spread of rabies. 

Rabies among certain species of wildlife (particularly skunks, bats, and other wild carnivores such as foxes) is enzoonotic to California.  Domestic dogs and cats are at risk for rabies in Monterey County.  As a result, County Ordinance requires all dogs and cats to be vaccinated against rabies.  Domestic animals are at increased risk of rabies if they are not protected by a rabies vaccination and come in contact with wildlife. 

Owners of domestic livestock species such as horses, sheep, goats, pigs and cattle are encouraged to discuss rabies vaccinations with their veterinarian as these species are also susceptible to rabies infections from rabid wild animals.

The rabies virus is usually passed to humans and animals via the bite of a rabid animal.  Occasionally rabies can be transmitted if the saliva of an infected animal gets into a fresh scratch, break in the skin, or mucous membranes (eyes, mouth, nose).

In addition to ensuring that their pets have been properly vaccinated, residents are advised to avoid leaving pet food outside as it encourages wildlife activity around the home.  They should always avoid contact with any of the wildlife species identified above.  It is highly unusual for skunks, bats, raccoons, or opossums to be seen during daylight hours.  This behavior should be viewed as suspicious and may indicate the presence of a rabies infection.  Do not touch or approach the animal.  If any wild animals are found dead, acting abnormally or ill call Monterey County Animal Services at (831) 769‑8850. 

If you have any contact with these animals, or if you believe that your pet has been in contact with a rabid animal, please contact the Monterey County Health Department immediately by calling Animal Services at [phone].  It will be necessary to carefully evaluate the degree of exposure in order to determine if quarantine of the animal is necessary.  If you or a member of your family has contact with a skunk, raccoon or bat, please contact your family physician immediately so that an evaluation can be made about the need for post-exposure treatment.  Once symptoms develop, rabies is fatal.

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The public should know and understand the following:

• Rabies is a fatal disease in humans and domestic animals.
• Being vaccinated prior to exposure is the only way to protect pets from infection with rabies.
• Dogs and cats must be kept current on rabies vaccinations.
• Humans and pets should always avoid contact with wild animals.
• Avoid feeding and leaving pets unattended outdoors.
• Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas where they might contact people and pets.
• Contact the Monterey County Health Department Animal Control program to report a wild animal that is acting unusual (out during the daytime, approaching people, staggering, etc.) or to report a pet that may have had contact with a suspicious acting wild animal.
• See your veterinarian if your animal is injured by a wild animal or other domestic animal.
• Avoid separating animals that are fighting.