A cat found near the intersection of Redan and South Hairston roads has tested positive for rabies, according to DeKalb County Animal Control. The rabies was confirmed on Monday, June 10.

The DeKalb County Board of Health is investigating possible exposures.

The Board of Health asks that anyone in the vicinity of Redan and South Hairston roads who was scratched or bitten by an unfamiliar animal seek medical care immediately and call the Board of Health at (404) 294-3700.

The DeKalb County Animal Control Division is distributing flyers and making automated calls to homes and businesses in the area.

"Any person who is bitten or scratched by a stray animal should clean the wound with soap and water and take immediate medical action," advises Stuart Brown, M.D., medical director of the DeKalb County Board of Health.

Medical treatment for rabies includes administering rabies immune globulin to prevent the disease from developing.

"Area residents can reduce their risk of rabies exposure by not leaving trash outside uncovered or feeding wild animals. People should also never approach an unfamiliar or strangely acting animal," Dr. Brown says.

DeKalb County law requires current rabies vaccinations for cats and dogs. Unvaccinated pets that are bitten or scratched by a possibly rabid animal are quarantined for a mandatory six-month period and may be destroyed. Vaccinated cats and dogs face a shorter quarantine.

Area residents who have outdoor pets should observe their animal's behavior closely and not allow their pets to run free. People should notify DeKalb County Animal Control about any pet or wild animal that acts unusually nervous or aggressive or has excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth. Call (404) 294-2996 on weekdays and Saturdays or (404) 294-2519 during evenings and on Sundays.

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