The Alabama Department of Public Health has issued a public warning after a rabid fox bit a woman in Atmore. The incident occurred as the woman was unloading groceries from her vehicle and was suddenly attacked by the fox. The fox was later confirmed to have rabies after being tested at the Alabama Department of Public Health Bureau of Clinical Laboratories. Rabies is a viral disease that can be fatal if left untreated.
Dr. Dee W. Jones, State Public Health veterinarian, emphasized the importance of vaccinating domestic animals against rabies to reduce the risk of infection. Alabama state law mandates that dogs, cats, and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older must have current rabies vaccinations. Horses and other livestock can also be vaccinated if recommended by a veterinarian.
To prevent possible exposure to rabies, residents are advised to keep pets confined, avoid leaving pet food outside, refrain from feeding or keeping wildlife as pets, and avoid approaching animals behaving strangely. Parents are also cautioned to educate children about avoiding contact with stray or wild animals.
It is crucial for the community to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect against rabies. Vaccination and responsible pet ownership are key in preventing the spread of this deadly disease.
Vocabulary List:
- Rabies /ˈreɪ.biːz/ (noun): A viral disease that can be fatal if left untreated often transmitted through animal bites.
- Vaccinating /ˈvæk.sɪ.neɪ.tɪŋ/ (verb): Administering a vaccine to an individual to provide immunity against a disease.
- Veterinarian /ˌvɛt.ər.ɪˈnɛr.i.ən/ (noun): A person qualified to treat diseased or injured animals.
- Incident /ˈɪn.sɪ.dənt/ (noun): An event or occurrence typically one that is unusual or noteworthy.
- Confined /kənˈfaɪnd/ (adjective): Restricted in area or volume; cramped.
- Precautions /prɪˈkɔː.ʃənz/ (noun): Measures taken in advance to prevent harm or danger.
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