Avoiding wild and stray animals can cut rabies risk

ALBANY – With animal bites increasing, the Southwest Georgia Health District is warning area residents to take steps to avoid exposure to rabies.

Here are some steps that can help minimize risk.

Do not approach, handle or feed wild or stray animals

Vaccinate family pets against rabies annually

Teach children not to approach or play with wild or stray domestic animals of any kind

Do not leave pets or children unattended outside or allow them to roam free

If bitten by an animal:

Thoroughly clean the wound immediately with soap and water to reduce the likelihood of rabies transmission

Call your doctor or local health department as soon as possible for advice. An individual or doctor can consult with the Georgia Poison Center at 1 (800) 282-5846 to determine whether post-exposure treatment is recommended for the bite. A doctor can also notify the bite victim if a tetanus booster or antibiotics are needed. Be prepared to provide information about the type of animal, any symptoms the animal exhibited, whether the attack was provoked or unprovoked, type and number of exposures, animal’s vaccination status if a pet and whether the animal is available for testing or quarantine.