Saturday, June 30, 2012

Bison rabies in Colorado

When an adult bison died suddenly officials wondered whether the death was linked to the spate of nearby rabies cases nearby.  Four individuals who had been in contact with the bison are receiving the post-exposure rabies vaccine, according to the Lamar Ledger.

Skunk rabies now is present in most of Colorado east of the Continental Divide, with the exceptions of the Denver metro area and Jefferson and Boulder counties.
Dr. Elisabeth Lawaczeck, state public health veterinarian at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, said, "Don't procrastinate - vaccinate! Pet owners should ensure their animals are currently vaccinated through a licensed veterinarian."
Prowers County Director of Public Health Jackie Brown said, "We are very concerned about rabies and very concerned people aren't taking it seriously.

See also:  CSU Bison dies of rabies