7/10/13 - With summer here, The Livingston County Department of Public Health is reminding that animal bites become much more frequent in local communities and present a risk for rabies, as well as tetanus and other infections. Last year, the state tested 94 animal specimens from Livingston County for rabies, and two tested positive. The health department says wild animals are much more likely to carry rabies but bats pose the most risk for infection, and residents should never handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter. The department says never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home and do not try to nurse sick animals to health. Officials say parents should teach children to never handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. If you do have pets, keep vaccinations up to date. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, the health department says seek veterinary assistance immediately. If you happen to notice any stray domestic animals in your neighborhood, the department advises contacting your local animal control agency as they may be un-vaccinated and could be infected with rabies. Additional information can be found in the release below. (JM)
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