The Cumberland County Department of Health is alerting residents in the Port Norris area of a potential rabies exposure involving a litter of kittens from the North Avenue block near Main Street. A recent investigation has confirmed that one of the kittens tested positive for rabies.
Some kittens from the same litter may have already been given away to people in the community. If you or someone you know has recently received a kitten from the North Avenue area of Port Norris, please contact the Cumberland County Health Department at 856-327-7602. The kittens may need to be monitored for rabies symptoms. Humans and other pets that have been in contact with the sick kittens should be checked for potential rabies exposure. Public cooperation is very important during this time.
Rabies is a very serious disease caused by a virus. People usually get it if they are bitten or scratched by an infected animal, however exposure to an infected animal’s saliva is also a way to get infected. If not treated early, rabies can be deadly. However, if treatment starts quickly, rabies can be prevented.
Animals with rabies may act strangely. They might drool a lot, walk in circles, or be aggressive. If you see a wild or stray animal acting strangely, stay away and call animal control.
Preventing rabies involves:
• Keeping your pets’ rabies shots up to date
• Staying away from wild or unknown animals
• Reporting animal bites to your local health department
• Receiving medical help right away if you think you’ve been exposed
“Our priority is to ensure that every resident who may have come into contact with these kittens is made aware and receives proper medical guidance,” said Megan Sheppard, Health Officer for the Cumberland County Dept. of Health. “Rabies is a serious but preventable disease and quick action is the best way to stay safe.”
For more information or to report a potential exposure, please call the health department at 856-327-7602.
