3-29-2005 |
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NEW RABIES CASE DISCOVERED NEAR LEWISBURG Two cases of rabies have been confirmed so far this year in the Lewisburg area, adding to existing concerns about the prevalence of the disease in that region. In late January, a lamb was bitten by skunk that was later confirmed as having the disease. The lamb was destroyed as a precaution and not tested. In late March, a lamb from the same farm fell ill and eventually died. Tests on it showed up positive for rabies. A horse was diagnosed with rabies last August as well. "Rabies is a threat to any warm-blooded animal and this is the season to be on the lookout. Farmers - and the public in general - should be observant of any abnormalities in their farm animals or wildlife," said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. "They should also check to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date for their dogs and cats as is required by state law. Pets can pick up the disease and transmit it to humans, which can be particularly dangerous to small children." Commissioner Douglass also noted that approved rabies vaccines are available for cattle, sheep and horses. "Those with valuable animals should definitely consider vaccinating them. A couple of dollars for a vaccination is a small price to pay to protect your investment." The affected flock has been put under a six-month quarantine by the attending veterinarian, Dr. John Tomlinson Jr., of the Fairlea Animal Hospital . The quarantine duration is mandated by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control because of unanswered questions surrounding the incubation period of rabies in farm animals. Farmers should consult their local veterinarian with any questions about vaccinating their animals.
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant, animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory and consumer protection programs, as mandated by state law. The Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials in West Virginia. Currently, Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is the longest-serving agriculture commissioner in the nation. For more information, visit www.wvagriculture.org. |
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