The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is asking Kansans to be alert to the risk of rabies caused by unvaccinated animals. Two cases of rabies have been affirmed in outdoor barn cats in Jewel and Harvey counties. Both cats exposed multiple people and other cats.
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted by the bite or scratch from a rabid animal. There have been six positive cases of rabies in cats this year, as well as several cases in wildlife. Rabies is not uncommon in wildlife, which means that free roaming pets can be exposed and infect humans. Officials urge people to vaccinate pets and livestock from the virus.
If you notice unusual behavior in your animal, or you think your animal may have had contact with rabid wildlife, it is important to immediately contact your veterinarian to determine the next steps to take. In order to prevent the spread of rabies, people should teach children to be cautious around outdoor animals, wild or domestic, even if they look to be friendly; wash any wound from an animal encounter thoroughly with soap and water and get medical attention immediately; keep pet vaccinations current; and monitor pets when outside.
