|
|
 |
How to Report:
If you have been bitten, scratched or have had contact with the saliva of an
animal that you believe is rabid, wash the wound immediately and call your doctor.
If your doctor recommends treatment, call your county health department immediately
to determine where you should receive treatment. If there is any chance of exposure
to a bat through an inapparent bite, for example, a bat had direct contact with
someone, or was in a room with a sleeping individual, unattended child, or with
someone with mental impairment, contact your county health department immediately
to discuss the situation. Each county is required by the state to authorize all
treatment of individuals who have been exposed to the rabies virus. With this
prior authorization, it is likely that you will not have to pay for the cost
of treatment. Without prior authorization, you may be responsible for treatment
expenses.
County health agencies are also responsible for managing animal bites and exposure
of domestic animals to known or suspect rabid animals.
For the convenience of Rensselaer County residents, rabies vaccination is offered
at least once every four months through vaccination clinics held by the Rensselaer
County Dept. of Health. These vaccinations are available free of charge, but
donations are accepted.
As always, staff of the Rensselaer County Dept. of Health are available around
the clock to help anyone who may have been exposed to rabies or who has questions
about the disease. Schedules of pet vaccination clinics or other information
can be obtained by calling 270-2655 during business hours. After normal business
hours, residents with urgent inquiries can call 270-2770.
|
|
