Robins public health notice: rabies

The Georgia Public Health Laboratory reported a raccoon at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, tested positive for the rabies virus.

If you have pets that are not currently vaccinated against rabies, it is very important to have them vaccinated, both dogs and cats, immediately. If your pets begin to act in a strange manner (e.g., excessive drooling, increased aggression, staggering, paralysis, abnormal vocalizations, etc.) please contact the Robins Veterinary Clinic at (478) 327-8448 or the Houston County Health Department, Environmental Health section at (478) 218-2020.

What you need to know about rabies:

‒ It is an infection caused by a virus that is transmitted in the saliva of infected animals.

‒ It is transmitted by a bite or contact with infected saliva through open wounds, nose or mouth.

‒ Wild animals are the most likely potential source of rabies for both humans and pets.

‒ If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, it is critical you seek medical care immediately. Without proper treatment, rabies is almost always fatal.

• All Active Duty and Tricare beneficiaries can be seen at the Medical Group. If you are seen off base, please follow-up with your Primary Care Manager because we still need to track the incident.
• If you are a civilian, and it happened while at work, you can be evaluated at Operational Medicine Services, building 207. If you are a contractor, please seek care at your approved medical facility.

How to protect yourself and your pet:

‒ Vaccinate your pets against rabies.

‒ Avoid contact with stray or wild animals or any animal exhibiting unusual behaviors.

‒ Bat-proof your home.

‒ Teach your children how to protect themselves.

‒ Do not feed stray pets or wildlife.

For more information, contact the 78th Medical Group Public Health at (478) 327-8019 or Houston County Environmental Health at (478) 218-2020.