The Division of Public Health (DPH) in Delaware has recently announced the detection of the first case of rabies in an animal this year. The infected animal, a groundhog, was discovered near Bringhurst Woods Park, situated off Washington Street Extension and Carr Road.
Authorities hav e revealed that a resident and their dog were exposed to the potentially rabid groundhog last week in a residential neighborhood. Subsequent testing confirmed the presence of the rabies virus in the groundhog. As a precautionary measure, state officials strongly advised the affected individual and their dog to seek appropriate treatment.
In response to this incident, public health officials are urging anyone who believes they may have encountered a groundhog or feral cat in the area, and potentially sustained bites or scratches, to promptly contact their healthcare provider or reach out to the DPH Rabies Program at 302-744-4995.
This marked case of rabies represents the first confirmed incident in the state this year, following the testing of 75 animals for the viral disease thus far. In the previous year, approximately 200 animals were tested, with eleven of them yielding positive results. Notably, none of the positive cases involved a groundhog.
Stay vigilant and report any potential interactions with wildlife to ensure the timely management and prevention of rabies transmission.
The Division of Public Health (DPH) in Delaware recently disclosed the occurrence of the initial rabies case in an animal this year. The affected animal, a groundhog, was discovered in close proximity to Bringhurst Woods Park, located off Washington Street Extension and Carr Road.
According to state officials, a resident and their dog had a potential encounter with the groundhog, which was suspected of carrying rabies. Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of the rabies virus in the groundhog, prompting state authorities to recommend immediate treatment for the individual and their dog.
In response to this development, public health officials are urgently requesting individuals who believe they may have been bitten, scratched, or had any interaction with a groundhog or feral cat in the area to promptly contact their healthcare provider or reach out to the DPH Rabies Program at 302-744-4995.
It is important to note that this is the first documented case of rabies in Delaware this year, following the testing of 75 animals for the viral disease thus far. In the previous year, close to 200 animals were tested, with eleven of them testing positive. However, none of the positive cases involved a groundhog.
Remain vigilant and promptly report any potential encounters with wildlife to ensure swift management and prevention of rabies transmission.