Tuesday, May 10, 2022

7th Rabies Case Confirmed in Pleasantville Cat

A stray cat from the 700 block of Wesley Avenue in Pleasantville has tested positive for rabies, becoming the seventh confirmed case of the viral disease in Atlantic County this year and the first case involving a cat.

The cat was found with a wound of unknown origin and cared for by the Pleasantville residents. When the cat began displaying neurological symptoms, the residents took the cat to a veterinarian for medical care.  The cat then tested positive for rabies on May 9. 

An investigation by the Division of Public Health found potential rabies exposure among the two residents and have advised them to contact their healthcare provider regarding post exposure rabies treatment.

The county’s other rabies cases this year have involved a fox collected from Hamilton Township  three skunks found in Egg Harbor Township ad two skunks collected from Northfield.

Because rabies can be fatal if left untreated, public health officials remind residents of the importance of vaccinating their pets to protect both the animals and the humans with whom they have contact.

The Atlantic County Animal Shelter holds free rabies vaccination clinics each month for dogs and cats by appointment at www.aclink.org/animalshelter. The next clinic is scheduled for Sunday, June 5, 9 AM to 12 noon. Dogs must be on leashes and cats must be in carriers.

Public health officials also advise residents to teach children to stay away from wild, stray or aggressive animals. Never feed or touch wild animals or try to keep them as pets.

Residents should also ensure trash cans have secure lids to prevent wildlife from foraging for food and not leave pet food outside. Many animals are also attracted to bird seed.

If you see wildlife that is behaving strangely, especially nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons found during daylight hours, do not approach the animal. Instead, call your local Animal Control Officer. Contact information is available on the county web site at: www.aclink.org/animal-shelter/municipal.asp

If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5971.

For more information about rabies control and precautions to protect your family and your pets, please visit the county web site at www.aclink.org/publichealth.

 

County News