Protecting yourself and your pets from rabies

Animals that carry rabies are found year-round, however, in warmer months these types of cases become much more prevalent.

The Monongalia County Health Department has confirmed two cases of rabies in raccoons in the Monongalia County area within the last two months.

"So far this year we've had approximately 20 cases of animals that have been rabid in West Virginia. This is the second case of a raccoon with rabies in Monongalia County is 6 weeks," said Diane Gross the Regional Epidemiologist at the Monongalia County Health Department.

Medical professionals encourage everyone to keep their houses protected from any stray or rabid animal that could be of danger on their property. This includes sealing your garbage cans and blocking any space that could be access into your home.

When most people think of rabies they often point to raccoons, however, they're not the only carrier of the disease.

"In West Virginia, we most commonly see rabies in raccoons, skunks, bats, and fox. It can also affect pets, including dogs and cats and livestock," said Gross.

Rabies is a viral disease found in mammals that attacks the nervous system and could lead to death. It is transmitted through saliva, so taking proper action after being bitten by an animal you don't know is recommended.

"Although rabies is a fatal disease it can be prevented if you seek treatment promptly. So, if you're bitten by any animal you should always wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. However, if you think the animal may have had rabies you should contact your health department or your physician promptly," said Gross.

It's also encouraged to keep your pets vaccinated. Also make sure to avoid any animal that's acting erratic or aggressive.

"If you suspect that you have a rabid animal on your property you should contact your health department or an animal control specialist to come and give assistance in removing that animal," said Gross.

Other tips are to never feed raccoons or use any sort of scare tactic because they will come back.

There are some chemicals you can use as repellent for raccoons such as mixtures of coyote urine or other natural repellents.