Followup: Rabid Animal on Greenway

It was one week ago today that the Wilkes County Health Department release a warning concerning a rabid kitten that was found on the Greenway in Wilkes.  A total of 5 people who attempted to care for the kitten and were bitten were identified and received rabies post exposure prophylaxis.  Four of the five were from Wilkes and one was from Watauga County.  According to Ann Absher of the Wilkes Health Dept, no other local residents came forward concerning the rabid kitten on the Greenway.  However, they did receive calls from people who had been bitten or scratched by another cat.  The Health Dept advises:  For the welfare of the animal, and the safety and health of the public, all cats and dogs in Wilkes County should be kept on leash. When bitten or scratched by any animal (even a dog or cat that is currently vaccinated against rabies) you should thoroughly clean the wound with soap and warm water and contact your physician or health department for additional advice.  For more information on rabies contact the Wilkes Health Dept at 651-7573 or online www.wilkeshealth.com .