DHSS Press Release |
Date: August 21, 2003 DHSS-72-2003 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Karryl McManus, Deputy Secretary (302) 255-9047, Pager (302) 247-2116 |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RABIES CLINICS OFFER LOW-COST PET VACCINATIONS
The Kent County SPCA is offering low-cost rabies vaccinations with support from Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH). The clinics will be held between Aug. 23 and Nov. 1.
Rabies is a fatal disease of the brain and spinal cord, caused by a virus carried by mammals. To prevent rabies, DPH reminds the public to avoid wild animals and to have their pet dogs, cats and ferrets vaccinated against rabies in accordance with state law. In 2002, there were 55 rabies cases, including a domesticated dog and a cat. To date in 2003, DPH has confirmed 37 rabies cases.
Vaccinating pets against rabies is an essential in protecting loved ones and halting the spread of this fatal disease. The cost of the vaccination is $5 per pet. Proof of previous vaccination is required to obtain a three-year rabies vaccination certificate. Dogs must be on a leash or in a carrier. Cats and ferrets must be in a carrier. Dog licenses will be available.
Clinic dates and locations are as follows:
| Date | Time | Location | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug. 23 | 10 a.m. - noon | Laurel Fire Department | 205 West 10th St., Laurel |
| Sept. 27 | 10 a.m. - noon | Kent County SPCA | 32 Shelter Circle, Dover |
| Oct. 4 | 10 a.m. - noon | PETsMART | Route 13, Dover |
| Oct. 18 | 10 a.m. - noon | Kent County SPCA | 32 Shelter Circle, Dover |
| Nov. 1 | 10 a.m. - noon | Kent County SPCA | 32 Shelter Circle, Dover |
For more information, contact DPH's rabies program at (302) 744-4545.
Infected animals transmit the rabies virus when they bite or scratch a person or an animal, or if their saliva touches broken skin, open wounds or the lining of the eyes, nose or mouth. Animals with the rabies virus often behave unusually. Wildlife that appears to be friendly, unafraid, or confused may have rabies, although rabid bats may not exhibit any obvious symptoms. Rabid animals may attack people or other animals for no reason. Loss of muscle coordination, excessive salivation, paralysis and other neurological symptoms may appear prior to death by rabies. Delawareans who see animals with rabies symptoms should keep people and animals away from them, then report them to (302) 744-4545.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
