Rabies

In the United States, cases of rabies are increasing, especially in the Southeast, Mid Atlantic, and Northeast. Rabies is from the virus family of rhabdovridae. Rabies, or hydrophobia, is a disease caused by a virus that affects the central nervous system. It is often fatal if not treated. The virus is transferred by the bite of an infected animal or by it lick over an open wound. Rabies is present in the animal's saliva and …

…Wild animals should be killed immediately. Rabies is a very fatal disease. People should take care with wild animals and be sure that their pets (or livestock) are vaccinated against the virus. Every pet owner has the responsibility of helping to prevent the spread of rabies. This responsibly includes cooperating with sponsored rabies controlled programs, understanding the basic signs of rabies, and knowing what to do if bitten by a pet, stray, or wild animal.