In the past few weeks, two rabid skunks were found in the Anzar
Hills area of San Benito County, and the health department wants to
alert residents about the threat from such wildlife in the
community, according to a statement from Health Officer Elizabeth
Falade.
HOLLISTER
In the past few weeks, two rabid skunks were found in the Anzar Hills area of San Benito County, and the health department wants to alert residents about the threat from such wildlife in the community, according to a statement from Health Officer Elizabeth Falade.
The news came as the county plans to hold its last low-cost rabies vaccination clinic today from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the animal shelter, 1331 South St.
The department notes that rabies is a preventable viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. It infects the central nervous system, causing death. Once symptoms arise, it is almost always fatal. It can be transmitted through the saliva of an animal or human, in the skin or through a mucous membrane, and a bite doesn’t have to occur, the statement notes.
The health department also warned about domestic animals and the potential for infection and it reminded residents about proper licensing to prevent spread of rabies.
For more information about rabies, go to www.cdc.gov.
