2006 News

September 28 , 2006

Bucks County Health Department Cautions Against Handling Wild Animals

The Bucks County Department of Health has issued a warning to residents to never handle wild animals known to transmit rabies to man. Animals which carry the highest risk of rabies transmission include “feral” or wild cats, foxes, raccoons, skunks, and bats. Rabies has been observed in Pennsylvania terrestrial mammals for over 20 years. Other wild animals are also potentially capable of transmitting this fatal disease. The Department urges all county residents to avoid any physical contact with these high-risk animals, especially baby animals, even if the animal does not appear to be ill or behaving aggressively. In the event that a person should suffer a bite or scratch from one of these animals, or is exposed to the animal’s saliva or secretions, that individual should seek medical attention immediately. The biting animal should be carefully captured using safety gloves, goggles, and clothing and examined promptly by a veterinarian. If possible, capture should be done by trained personnel to avoid additional bites and scratches. The Bucks County Department of Health should be notified as soon as possible after the bite, scratch or exposure to animal saliva or secretions.

The Department also makes the following general recommendations:

• VACCINATE all dogs and cats against rabies. This is now required by Pennsylvania State Law for dogs and household cats over three months of age.
• Control all dogs and cats by leashing them when outside.
• DO NOT make PETS of wild animals, especially skunks and raccoons.
• Strangely acting, sick, or dead (warm-blooded) animals of any species should be considered suspect and handled only by trained personnel.
• Persons receiving animal bites and/or exposure to the saliva or secretion of suspect animals should thoroughly cleanse the wound with soap and water and seek immediate MEDICAL help.

If additional information is required, contact the Bucks County Department of Health at 215-345-3318.