Write a commentThe Oswego County Health Department announces June is Rabies Awareness Month in New York State. The staff is working with the NYS Department of Health to raise public awareness about the dangers of rabies.
"Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system," said Oswego County Public Health Director Jiancheng Huang. "People usually get exposed to the rabies virus when an infected animal bites them; however, exposure may also occur if saliva from a rabid animal enters an open cut or mucous membrane, such as the eyes, nose or mouth."
Rabies is most often seen among wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes, although any mammal can be infected with rabies.
Huang said, "With the nicer weather and school's break for summer vacation, children and pets are more active outdoors. Adults need to be aware of the risk of exposure if they come into contact with wild animals."
To reduce the risk of exposure to rabies and the high cost of treatment after human exposure to the virus, residents should:
Teach children to stay away from unfamiliar animals, either wild or domestic, even if they appear to be friendly.
Keep your pet's vaccinations current. The Oswego County Health Department offers rabies vaccination clinics at various locations around the county. For a complete schedule, visit http://www.oswegocounty.com/health/rabies%202013.pdf.
Contact the Oswego County Health Department before starting post-exposure prophylaxis treatment of rabies. Call 315-349-3557 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. or call 315-341-0086 evenings and weekends.
