COFFEE COUNTY, Ala. (WDNews) – Reports say a horse in Coffee County has tested positive for rabies after showing sudden and severe symptoms.
The owner reportedly noticed scratch marks on the animal’s nose before it began rubbing the area and showing irritation. The scratches were suspected to have come from contact with a raccoon or a fox.
Within 72 hours, the horse’s condition worsened. It reportedly stopped eating, became aggressive, and began biting itself before it died.
Samples were sent to the Alabama Department of Public Health Bureau of Clinical Laboratories in Mobile, which confirmed the rabies infection, according to reports.
Officials reported the owner, family members, and a neighbor who were exposed are undergoing post-exposure rabies treatment. Other unvaccinated horses on the property are reportedly being monitored.
