ANIMAL BITES & RABIES

Rabies is a severe viral disease that affects the central nervous system. All warm-blooded mammals including humans are susceptible to rabies. Rabies is most often transmitted in the virus-containing saliva of rabid animals (bats, cats, dogs, etc) via a bite, scratch or combination of a mucous membrane. If you or someone you know has been bitten by an animal in Whitman County, please use the below form to report the bite or download the Whitman County Bite Report Form and email to eh@whitmancounty.net or fax to 509-397-6239

For more information about rabies, visit the Washington State Department of Health website. There are several things you and your family can do to reduce your risk of rabies exposure.

•          Do not handle wild animals, especially bats.
•          Teach your children to never touch or handle bats, even dead ones. Have your children tell an adult if they find a bat at home, at school, or with a pet.
•          If you see a wild animal, leave it alone.
•          Do not keep wild animals as pets.
•          Keep bats out of your living space.
•          Pets can get rabies if bitten by a rabid animal. Protect them and yourself by getting them vaccinated routinely. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are now required to be vaccinated in Washington. Consult your veterinarian for vaccine recommendations.  

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