Annually, Clermont County Public Health receives more than 300 cases of potential rabies contact. Rabies is a serious disease that affects the nervous system. Rabies can be spread if an infected animal bites you. Even scratches or contact with saliva can spread the virus.
What to Do If You’re Exposed to Rabies
- If you’re potentially exposed to rabies (through a bite or a scratch), immediately clean the area with soap and water.
- Then, see a doctor to decide if you need treatment.
- Within 24 hours, report any potential rabies exposure to Clermont County Public Health. They will help locate the animal and start a quarantine.
What Happens to the Animal?
If a healthy dog or cat bites or scratches a person, it will be quarantined for 10 days. After the quarantine, a veterinarian will examine the animal. If no signs of rabies are found, it can be declared free from the disease. If the dog or cat doesn’t have a current rabies vaccination, it will receive one during this time. If the animal becomes sick during quarantine, report it to Clermont County Public Health and have it checked by a vet. The animal may be humanely euthanized and tested if it shows signs of rabies.
If a stray dog or cat bites someone, it can be euthanized and tested or put in quarantine for 10 days. If it stays healthy after the quarantine, it doesn’t need to be tested for rabies.
Bats are considered high risk for rabies. A bat should be euthanized and tested if it bites a person or a pet. If a bat is found near a child, a sleeping person, or someone who is intoxicated or mentally impaired, it’s best to get treatment for rabies even if you cannot confirm direct contact.
Preventing Rabies
To prevent rabies, get rid of stray dogs and cats, vaccinate your pets, stay away from wild animals, avoid keeping exotic pets, and secure your home to keep bats away from people.
