Rabies Surveillance

All animal bites are required to be reported to Environmental Health Services at 973-5000. The animal (excluding wild animals) in question is quarantined for 10 days from the date of the bite or exposure and then released if in good health. The victim of the bite or exposure is notified that the animal is in good health after the 10 days and that rabies is not a concern.

Animals involved in a bite or exposure are checked for current tags and vaccinations. Environmental Health Services works closely with Madison County Animal Services to ensure animals have current tags and vaccinations.

In circumstances where the animal bite or exposure incident indicates the probability of rabies infection, provisions are made for the humane sacrifice of the animal and a subsequent examination. Test results are reported to the exposed patient and appropriate control measures are taken.

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