Positive rabies case reported in DeKalb County

Cat tested positive in Stone Mountain area 

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—A positive rabies case was reported in the Stone Mountain area involving a cat. The cat was captured, euthanized and tested positive for rabies.

Georgia is a rabies endemic state, and the virus is present all year long. It is not unusual for the county to report several rabies cases each year.

When rabid animals are reported in a community, it is essential for residents to take proactive safety measures to protect themselves, their families, and their pets. 

Health officials advise that residents:

1. Avoid contact with all unfamiliar animals

Health officials advise that residents:

1. Avoid contact with all unfamiliar animals

• Do not approach, handle, or feed wild animals or stray or unfamiliar animals, including those that appear unusually tame or friendly. Rabid animals may exhibit unusual behavior, including staggering, aggression, or a loss of fear towards humans.
• Report unusual animal behavioryour local animal control department or USDA’s Wildlife Services at 1-866-4-USDA-WS (1-866-487-3297).

2. Protect your pets:

• Ensure your dogs, cats, and ferrets are vaccinated against rabies and keep their vaccinations current according to state and local laws.
• Keep cats and ferrets indoors, and supervise dogs when they are outdoors to minimize potential contact with wildlife and stray animals.
• If your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal, contact your veterinarian and local animal control immediately. Do not handle your pet directly after the encounter without using protective gloves.
• Avoid leaving pet food or garbage outdoors, as it may attract wild animals.
• 3. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal.
  4. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes to flush out any potential virus.
  • Contact your healthcare provider or visit the nearest emergency room immediately to assess the risk of rabies exposure and determine if post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is necessary. PEP includes a fast-acting rabies immune globulin and a series of rabies vaccinations.
  • Report the bite or scratch to your local health department and/or animal control agency. Provide information about the animal involved (wild or pet, behavior, vaccination status if known), the circumstances of the incident, and any other relevant details.