Only 11 human deaths from rabies have been recorded in the United States since 1969, according to Jennifer Richmond, RN, public health nurse with the Humboldt County Health Department. This is apparently due to preventive vaccination. But for those claimed by rabies, the end is grotesque. First there is a period of vague symptoms lasting from two to 10 days. There may also be pain, itching or numbness and tingling at the site of the wound.
Some patients become agitated and disoriented, while others become paralyzed.
Patients either die during this stage of the illness or go into a coma and die from further complications. A man walks his dog on a leash through the Redwood Park 11th Street parking lot when a truck driven by apparent urban travelers pulls up and parks in a handicapped space. Police are called, but by the time they respond, the dogs have relieved themselves and the truck is gone. Many Marsh and park users cite dog feces as a problem which degrades their recreational experience. But the problem isn't just aesthetic.