Our Charlotte, North Carolina dog bite attorneys want to remind you of the dangers of contracting the rabies virus, whether by being bitten by a wild animal or even your own dog or cat. It is important to keep your pets rabies vaccination current, and never try to pick up a wild animal, no matter how adorable it might be.
Brunswick County, NC just reported its third confirmed case of rabies for this year. Animal Control reports that a kitten in Calabash was attacked and killed by a rabid raccoon. Three other cats that had come into contact with that same raccoon had to be euthanized as they lacked valid rabies vaccines. A dog in Calabash was also euthanized the same day after being bitten by a rabid fox which has not yet been caught.
Signs & Symptoms of Rabies
Rabies is a virus that attacks the central nervous symptoms, and, without prompt treatment, is always fatal. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the initial symptoms are much like flu symptoms-irritability, headache, fever, and fatigue. As the disease progresses and the brain begins to swell, more severe symptoms develop, including delirium, seizures, paralysis, and, ultimately, death.
Treatment
Immediately after being bitten by any animal, it is important to thoroughly cleanse the area with soap and water. After the bite has been cleansed, seek medical attention. Your medical provider, in conjunction with your local animal control or health department, will determine whether you will need a rabies vaccination.
Contrary to popular belief, postexposure rabies treatment does not consist of a series of injections into the stomach. Rather, one injection of immune globulin is administered in the arm, followed by four doses of the rabies vaccine, in the arm, over a two week period.
