NET Health Issues Rabies Advisory

TYLER — Over the past month, the Northeast Texas Public Health District (NET Health) has received an increased number of cases involving pet animal exposure to animals at high risk for rabies, according to a NET Health news release. The Texas Department of State Health Services advised NET Health that three skunks submitted for analysis tested positive for rabies. Each of these three cases involved a family dog fighting with a skunk that entered the yard, according to officials.

Health authorities say it is critical for people not to handle bats, skunks, raccoons, coyotes, foxes, or sick wild animals. Authorities also say it is critical to educate children to tell their parents of any contact with wild animals or any sick animals. Anyone who knows of a person being bitten by an animal must report the bite incident to the Smith County Rabies Control Authority for proper investigation.

The Smith County Rabies Control Authority advises all citizens to confirm that their pets and livestock are currently vaccinated for rabies. City of Tyler Ordinance and Smith County Ordinance require annual rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats. It is a Class C misdemeanor if you fail to vaccinate your dog or cat. Preventative immunization for rabies is the only effective defense against this always fatal disease, according to officials. Anyone with questions on rabies control may contact Ginger Wood, R.S., Interim Director, Environmental Health Department, NET Health, at 903-535-0037.