Rabies

Rabies…

is a viral disease primarily of animals caused by infection of the brain and spinal cord. People get rabies from the bite of an infected animal. In the United States, rabies in dogs has been largely controlled, due to vaccination; though, rabies is still widespread in wildlife.  Bats, raccoons, skunk, and fox are the major reservoirs and serve as a source of potential infection for other animals.

If you, a family member, or pet are bit by a wild animal (or pet with unknown rabies vaccination status) immediately wash the bite wound with soap and water or an iodine tincture. As soon as you are able, call your local animal control officer (ACO) and inform them of the incident. Below are the numbers for the ACO’s in our jurisdiction:

Berlin ACO: (860) 828-7080, 600 Christian Lane, Berlin, CT

Newington ACO: (860) 666-8445, 300 Garfield Strett, Newington, CT

Rocky Hill ACO: (860)258-7640, 699 Old Main Street, Rocky Hill, CT

Wethersfield ACO: (860) 721-2913, 250 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield, CT

If you or your pet come in contact with the saliva of a rabid animal, or an animal that is presumed to have rabies, you (or your pet) should get Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) immediately. Contact your doctor (or veterinarian) and let them know your situation. There is a short window of time to receive PEP between exposure of the virus that causes rabies and certain death (rabies has a 99.9% mortality rate).

For more information on Rabies in Connecticut, please visit: DPH: Rabies