ANDALUSIA, Ala. (WDNews) — The Alabama Department of Public Health has confirmed a case of rabies in a dog in Andalusia, with officials reporting that the incident involved human exposure.
Health officials say a veterinarian first suspected the dog was infected and sent it for testing. The animal was later transported to the ADPH Bureau of Clinical Laboratories in Prattville, where rabies was confirmed.
State Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Dee W. Jones said the case serves as a reminder for pet owners across the area.
“This should be a stern reminder that all pets should be properly vaccinated against rabies, given the circumstances of rabid animals now in the same general area,” Jones said. “It is not unusual to see clusters of rabies cases in wild animals and strays during this time of year.”
Health officials say it is common for pets and domestic animals to come into contact with rabid wildlife. Under Alabama law, dogs, cats and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older must be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock when recommended by a veterinarian.
Officials stress that prevention includes keeping pets vaccinated, avoiding contact with wildlife, and reporting any bites or potential exposures to a medical provider or public health officials.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions, including keeping pets secured, avoiding feeding wildlife, and staying away from animals that appear sick or behave unusually. Parents are also urged to remind children not to approach stray or wild animals.
For more information, residents can contact ADPH at 334-206-5969 or visit the agency’s infectious diseases website.
