Rabies Shots

Charlotte, NC - The Mecklenburg County Health Department and local veterinarians are teaming up to offer low-cost rabies vaccinations during Rabies Vaccination Week, May 2 through May 7, 2005.

Monday through Saturday (May 2 - 7), Mecklenburg County veterinarians and animal hospitals will offer rabies shots for just $7.50. Pet owners are asked to call the veterinarian's office first to make an appointment.

Environmental Epidemiology Specialist Al Piercy handles rabies and animal bite investigations for the Mecklenburg County Health Department. "We have seen a slight decrease in rabies cases in Mecklenburg County this year, and we want to keep it that way," said Piercy.

Rabies can infect any mammal. In North Carolina it is most common in raccoons, skunks, and foxes, and has also been found in dogs, cats, horses, cattle, bats, and other animals. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of animals found to have rabies in North Carolina.

The virus is transmitted through contact with the saliva or nervous tissue of an infectious animal--usually through a bite. If an exposed person or animal is not treated quickly, the virus may infect the person or animal and kill them.

For more information about rabies, or to report a possible rabies case, check the Web site at www.meckhealth.org or call 704-336-6440.

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Media Contact: Andy Fair at 704-432-0021 or fairas@co.mecklenburg.nc.us

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