WAKE FOREST, NC — Five people were exposed to rabies in a western Wake Forest neighborhood, according to a Wake County news release.
A stray cat tested positive, the county said.
Wake County Health and Human Services and Wake County Animal Services said a woman called 911 Tuesday to report a tortoiseshell cat was trapped in an area near Great Woods Road in Wake Forest, near Durham and Creedmoor roads.
The woman says the cat came up on her porch, scratched and bit her, and called animal services.
The animal tested positive for rabies and was placed in quarantine, where it later died.
Four other people and a dog were also exposed to the feral cat.
Each person immediately began treatment for rabies exposure, and the dog received a rabies booster shot as a precaution.
“To safeguard our community, it is crucial that residents stay informed about cases like these because of the potential for exposure,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, Wake County Animal Services Director. “Be careful and avoid approaching unknown animals. Remember: stay safe, stay informed.”
The feral cat that was captured is believed to have come from a colony of feral cats that lived behind a nearby grocery store on Old Creedmoor Road. If anyone has been in contact with these cats, they are encouraged to contact the Wake County Health and Human Services Communicable Disease Program at 919-250-4462.
Anyone who sees an animal acting unusually is urged to call Animal Control officials. Follow the instructions below:
- Do not approach animals you do not know. Be careful and keep a safe distance.
- If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal with no vaccination history, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention.
- Make sure your pets have an up-to-date rabies vaccination. If your pet is allowed outside, a booster shot is highly recommended. Keep outdoor pets indoors until they get their booster shots.
- Do not feed stray or unknown animals, including cats and dogs. Avoid any interaction that could result in possible exposure.
- Do not leave trash or food outside unless it is in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid. Avoid attracting wild animals to your property.
- If a pet is fed outdoors, do not leave food out overnight. Minimize the chances of attracting animals that may carry rabies.
- If a pet comes into contact with an animal that might have rabies, contact a veterinarian immediately. Seek professional guidance to ensure your pet’s well-being.
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