Rabies case confirmed in Dundy County

    A second case of rabies in the southwest health district has been confirmed.
    The positive rabies case was in a skunk in Dundy County, according to SW Nebraska Health Department officials.
    In skunks and other warm-blooded animals, rabies is a deadly virus that causes inflammation of the brain.
    People may be exposed to rabies from saliva or blood, most commonly through a bite or contact with an infected wild animal. They may also be exposed through pets or livestock that were infected after contact with a contagious wild animal.
    “Practicing animal safety as an adult teaches children to be cautious around unfamiliar or wild animals. Any animal that has not been vaccinated against rabies is at risk of getting the disease,” said Lori Rowley, RN, Public Health Nurse with SWNPHD.
    “If you suspect that you or a family member has been exposed to rabies, contact your medical provider right away,” she said.
    Signs of rabies in animals may include any of the following: Difficulty with eating or drinking, increased aggression, general sickness, excessive drooling, odd behavioral changes, nervousness and irritability.
    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rabies is a medical urgency. Any person with a suspected exposure should wash wounds immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention from a healthcare professional right away.
    There is no treatment for rabies once a person has the disease. If an animal bites you, and it is safe to do so, catch the animal and contact a veterinarian for testing.
    “It may save you the pain and cost of preventive treatment,” Rowley said.
    The best method to prevent human exposure is to ensure that pets, livestock and horses are protected against rabies with current vaccinations.
    Contact a veterinarian or SWNPHD regarding rabies vaccination, testing and exposures.
    SWNPHD serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins and Red Willow counties.