By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama health officials are reminding residents that rabies remains a serious but preventable disease, posing ongoing risks to both people and pets across the state.
In recent years, Alabama has reported rabies in horses, bats in day care centers, stray kittens on college campuses, and dogs in rural and suburban areas. The virus has also been found in raccoons, foxes, coyotes, skunks, and bobcats.
“Rabies is a deadly viral disease that infects the central nervous system of mammals,” said Dr. Scott Harris, State Health Officer. “It’s spread through saliva or nervous tissue from an infected animal, usually by a bite.”
Scratches or contact with saliva on open wounds or mucous membranes can also spread the virus.
Two Strains, One Prevention
Alabama has two rabies strains — the raccoon variant and the bat variant. The raccoon strain can infect other wildlife and pets, while bat bites may go unnoticed, making them especially dangerous.
State law requires vaccination of dogs, cats, and ferrets, and officials strongly recommend vaccines for horses and livestock.
“Vaccinating animals not only protects them, but also protects families and communities,” Harris said.
Prevention Tips
Avoid contact with stray or wild animals.
Don’t handle bats.
Keep pets vaccinated and secured.