Fort Hood is reporting two cases of rabies on post.  In one case a resident was attacked.

 

According to a press release, the first identified case occurred May 12 when somebody saw a skunk acting strangely in a motor pool on Motor Pool Road.

 

The second case, on May 16, involved a dark gray and white kitten that attacked a Fort Hood resident outside a home on Central Drive on post.

 

The victim has started post exposure rabies prophylaxis,” Dr. John Kuczek, the officer in charge of the Fort Hood Veterinary Center said.

 

Because of these two cases Public Health Command and the Fort Hood Veterinary Center urges Fort Hood residents to avoid handling wild or stray animals, and make sure household pets are vaccinated against rabies.

If you came in contact with that kitten contact your family doctor, and the Fort Hood Veterinary Center.

Kuczek warns that an infected animal can spread the deadly virus while appearing completely normal.   It may not show symptoms until just before it dies.

 

The rabies virus is transmitted to humans by the saliva of infected animals through bite wounds, contact with mucous membranes, or broken skin.  Humans can become infected and harbor the virus for weeks to months, and in extremely rare cases, years before becoming ill.

Once exposed, rabies can be prevented with appropriate treatment, including a series of vaccinations.  But, the doctor warns, once symptoms occur, death is almost always certain.

 

 

 

 

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