Stray Cat Tests Positive For Rabies In DeKalb

DECATUR — A stray cat captured in the Willow Lake Drive area recently tested positive for rabies, DeKalb County officials said Monday.

County officials said a resident on Nov. 28 tried to put a stray cat inside of a pet carrier when he was bitten on the chin and finger.

A disease that affects the brain, county officials said several reports of rabies cases annually is not uncommon in DeKalb. Overall, Georgia is a rabies endemic state, county officials said.

Rabies is typically passed from animal to animal but can also be transmitted from animals to people through saliva, county officials said.

Residents are asked to ensure their pets are updated with vaccinations and eliminate outdoor feeding stations, as well as access to garbage cans.

"Vaccinations are effective in protecting humans and pets from the virus," county officials said in a news release.

Officials urge anyone who has either been bitten or scratched by an animal to promptly seek medical attention.

"Additionally, residents are advised to watch pets and contact DeKalb County Animal Control if unusual behavior occurs. Wild animal trapping will only occur if a domestic pet or person has been bitten or scratched," officials said in the release.

Call Animal Control, (404) 294-2996, for more information.