Rabies Prevention

Rabies is a preventable disease usually transmitted through animal bites. As rabies is nearly always fatal if not treated before symptoms occur, it's important that all potential exposures are reported and investigated to determine if treatment is necessary. 

If you get bitten or scratched by an animal:

  • Immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and warm water.
  • Seek medical attention and report the exposure immediately! See below for reporting instructions.
  1. Bite Reporting
  2. Bats
  3. Investigations & Treatment
  4. Pet Vaccination

Bite Reporting

By law, all potential human exposures to rabies must be reported to the health department. Medical Clinics; Veterinary Clinics; Law Enforcement; Fish, Wildlife and Parks Employees; and other agencies must report exposure incidents. Bites from wild or domestic animals that penetrate the skin, along with scratches, abrasions, open wounds, and mucous membranes that have come into contact with their saliva, are considered potential rabies exposures.