Rabies is a preventable viral disease of mammals transmitted through contact with saliva of an infected animal. The Delaware General Health District Rabies Control Program is charged with enforcement of reporting and quarantine of animals involved with a biting incident under Ohio Administrative Code (Chapter 3701-3).

Typical wildlife associated with the rabies virus include raccoons, skunks, bats, and fox. These animals can also pass rabies to pets. The last reported positive rabies in animals in Delaware County was in 2001 and was a bat.

Prevention

• Vaccinate pets regularly

• Do not feed or handle any wild animals, especially those that act in an unusual manner

• Keep lids on garbage cans and secure trash.

• Feed pets indoors and never leave them unattended outdoors.

• Teach children to stay away from wild animals and unknown cats and dogs, and to inform you if they have been bitten or scratched by an animal.

• Avoid touching dead animals.

Synopsis of Animal Control Regulations 2007

Animal Control Regulations 2007

Reporting a bite

If you have been bitten by an animal that potentially can carry rabies, please contact the Delaware General Health District at 740.368.1700 or download and send in this form (Bite Report) by faxing it to 740.368.1736, or by mailing it to

If your have been involved in a biting incident, Immediately wash the wound with lots of warm water and soap.  Contact your doctor, the Health District or Hospital emergency room. Try to detain or hold the animal, so that it can be quarantined or tested for rabies.  Avoid injuring the head of the animal.  The animal must be under a 10 day quarantine (keep the animal away from contact with unusual people and on a leash when outside for a period of ten (10) days from the time of incident Ohio Revised Code Section 955.26.1). After the quarantine period is over contact your veterinarian to obtain a vet certification of rabies vaccination and fax to 740.368.1736 or by mailing to the above address.

Links

Delaware County Dog License

Ohio Department of Health Rabies Control

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention