Pennsylvania Department of Health Confirms Rabid Kitten Found in Williamsport

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 24, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A black and orange kitten found abandoned in the vicinity of the 900 block of Park Avenue in Williamsport, Lycoming County, on May 26 has tested positive for rabies, the Department of Health confirmed.  

The department urges anyone who may have been bitten or exposed to saliva, fluids or tissue from the cat to contact the Northcentral District Office, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 570-327-3400.  Residents can also call 1-877-PA HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) at any time.

Anyone with a pet that may have come in contact with the rabid cat should contact a veterinarian for information about how to protect the animal, as well as family members.

Exposure includes having been bitten, scratched, or had saliva, nervous system fluid or tissue from an animal enter a person's open wound or mucous membranes such as eyes, nose or mouth. Under these circumstances, individuals should seek immediate medical attention.

The department also reminds all residents that they should avoid contact with all feral animals as it can be difficult to tell whether the animal is rabid. All animals that can be vaccinated – cats, dogs and ferrets – should be given the vaccine to protect them in case they are ever exposed to a rabid animal.

For more information, visit www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-PA -HEALTH (1-877-724-3258).

Media contact: Christine Cronkright, 717-787-1783

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Health

WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM?

440k+
Newsrooms &
Influencers

9k+
Digital Media
Outlets

270k+
Journalists
Opted In

GET STARTED