Typically, between 30 and 50 test positive, and most of those are bats or skunks, said Dr. Howard Pue, the state public health veterinarian. State law does not require rabies vaccinations for pets, but a Cole County ordinance does. People who are bit by an animal suspected of rabies should try to capture the animal, if possible. Then, Pue advises, wash the wound with soap and water for about 15 minutes. Capturing the suspected animal can determine whether it is rabid, and potentially prevent the bitten person from having to undergo a series of about seven shots over a month-long period.
Rabies affects the brain and sometimes causes animals to lose their fear of humans.
Veterinarians recommend euthanizing pets bitten by rabid animals. Pue said the other option is to quarantine the pet for a period of six months, a potentially difficult and costly task. He said humans can get pre-exposure vaccinations, but they're only recommended for people who are at risk for exposure, such as veterinarians or cave explorers. Co. All rights reserved. All rights reserved.