Stephens County Health Department reports two separate cases of rabies

Stephens County Health Department is reminding residents to avoid wild or stray animals to reduce possible exposure to rabies.

There have been two separate reports of possible rabies exposure in Stephens County.

Stephens County Environmental Health was recently notified that a stray cat close to the area of Mountain View Road and Nub Garland Road attacked one individual and attempted an attack on another. The cat later tested positive for rabies.

A raccoon found near Rothell Road Extension in Toccoa has also tested positive for rabies.

The raccoon had contact with a dog; but the dog was up to date on its rabies vaccinations and is now placed on a 45-day observation period.

Problems of this nature often occur when people attempt to feed or rescue stray domesticated dogs and cats.

If you have stray animals on your property, contact animal control.

People should always avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar dogs and cats.

Feral cats, unlike stray domesticated cats are born in the wild and should be treated as wild animals. Do not attempt to capture or feed feral cats, leave them alone.

If you feed your pets outside, pick up any uneaten food so wild animals, including feral cats will not be attracted to your property.

Although the occurrence of rabies among humans has declined noticeably over the years, the disease continues among wild animals and is frequently transferred to domestic animals during an attack.

Incidences of animal rabies in our area are common and residents should take precautions to protect themselves and their pets.

Maintaining current rabies vaccinations for your pets and keeping them away from wild animals is the best way to protect them.

The Georgia Department of Public Health says there is no better time than now to ensure that all of your pets are currently vaccinated.

For more information about rabies, ask your veterinarian, local health department or go to dph.georgia.gov/rabies.