Rabies Alert

🐱 Public Health Alert: Rabid Kitten Confirmed in Jones County

A stray kitten found in Jones County has tested positive for rabies.

While rabies in domestic animals is uncommon, this serves as an important reminder to use caution around stray animals.

If you have recently found or taken in a stray kitten or cat:
• Avoid handling the animal unnecessarily, especially if it appears sick or is acting strangely.
• Do not attempt to capture or care for wildlife or stray animals without proper precautions.
• If you are bitten or scratched, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical advice as soon as possible.
• If your pet has been exposed to a stray animal or is showing unusual behavior, contact your veterinarian right away.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly through a bite. Early medical treatment after an exposure is highly effective at preventing illness.

Because another person may have found a kitten from the same litter, anyone who recently took in a stray kitten in Jones County should closely monitor the animal for signs of illness and contact a veterinarian with any concerns.

If you believe you have been exposed to a potentially rabid animal, please contact Jones County Public Health or your healthcare provider for guidance.

Please help keep your family and pets safe by avoiding contact with unfamiliar stray animals and ensuring your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.