RONCEVERTE, W.Va. (WVDN) — The Greenbrier County Health Department has issued a public notice after confirming a positive rabies case in a wild animal within the Ronceverte vicinity.
The official Facebook page for the health department alerted the community, urging residents to exercise caution regarding wildlife and to take immediate steps to protect their pets by making sure rabies vaccinations are up to date.
Due to the confirmed case, the department strongly encourages the public to avoid contact with all wild animals. Even animals that appear tame or sick should be given a wide berth, as changes in behavior can be a primary sign of rabies infection.
Furthermore, all pet owners are reminded to ensure that their cats and dogs are current on their rabies vaccinations. Vaccinations are the most effective method for preventing the spread of rabies to domestic animals and, subsequently, to humans.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. It is transmitted primarily through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. Residents who suspect exposure to a potentially rabid animal should contact the Greenbrier County Health Department or their local animal control immediately.
