On Friday, another case of animal rabies in Greensboro was confirmed by the Guilford County Department of Health and Human Services.
A bat discovered northwest of downtown Greensboro tested positive for the rabies virus. It was the ninth confirmed case so far this year. There were 17 such cases this time last year. The animals that have been confirmed positive in 2023 include one fox, two skunks, four raccoons, one cat and one bat.
In its release, the Division of Public Health stated that animals confined to fenced areas outdoors should have current rabies vaccinations. Under North Carolina law, all domestic pets aged four months or older are required to be vaccinated against the virus.
Nursing Services Consultant Tammy Koonce says once someone has suffered a bite from a carrier, they receive a dose of rabies immune globulin, and vaccination. But she says that’s just the beginning.
"They would receive the first dose on day zero, the second on day three, the third on day seven and the fourth on day fourteen," says Koonce. "And if the person is somehow immune compromised, they would return on day 28 for the final vaccination."
To help prevent contact with rabies, DHHS officials caution against approaching any wildlife. If bitten by an animal, be sure and wash immediately with soap and water, get medical attention, and report the incident to animal control officers.