Confirmed Rabies Case Discovered In Stafford County Cat: Authorities

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A cat in Stafford County tested positive for rabies, the Rappahannock Area Health District said on Friday. The cat exposed multiple people to the virus through bites and scratches.

Stafford County animal control collected the gray and white tabby cat in the 400 block of Widewater Road on Monday. The cat became aggressive while in animal control custody, authorities said.

"The health department is notifying the public in case any people or pets may have had contact with this cat," public health officials said in a news release. "Any individuals who were exposed/potentially exposed to this cat should seek medical advice promptly from their healthcare provider to evaluate whether rabies prevention medication is needed."

If any animals were exposed to the infected cat, the health department recommends contacting a veterinarian immediately.

Authorities ask anyone who was exposed to notify animal control at 540-658-7387 and the health department at 540-288-9018.

The rabies disease occurs when a specific virus attacks the host's nervous system. Humans and animals can be infected through a bite, scratch, or other open wound.

Rabies is preventable in pets through a vaccine, which is required for all pets four months old or older in Virginia.

"In addition, residents should not approach or touch wild animals or unknown domestic animals and report any abnormal behavior involving these animals," the health department said. "All animal bites and rabies exposures must be reported to Stafford County Animal Control."

The health department also provided the following tips to help prevent the spread of rabies:

• Avoid contact with wild animals.
• Report unusual animals to animal control.
• Vaccinate all dogs, cats, and ferrets.
• Keep vaccinations up to date.
• Call your doctor, the local health department, and animal control if you are exposed.

"While intentions are good, the health department discourages individuals from feeding stray or feral animals," the health department said. "This will bring domestic and wild animals into close contact where transmission of the rabies virus may occur. If you have pets living outside, feed and water them in a manner that does not attract wild animals."