Media Release

CONTACT: Robert Marshall, Ph.D. 222-2231 (TTY 1-800-745-5555)
FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: March 19, 1998

Animal Bite Alert
Rabid Fox Confirmed in Jamestown
Attentive Parent Saves Child

The Rhode Island Department of Health Laboratory has confirmed a case of rabies in a fox from Jamestown, Rhode Island. This is the first case of wildlife rabies reported from Jamestown.

A 3 ½ year old was unharmed when her parent destroyed the animal which had approached the child in the back yard.

As spring approaches, the possibilities of being bitten by an animal increase. The Rhode Island Department of Health says that caution in dealing with animals, especially unfamiliar ones, can reduce the risk of being bitten.

Dr. Patricia A. Nolan, Department Director, said: "When animal bites occur, they can result in serious injury, wounds, infections, rabies –– even death." The Department reports that every year, more than 1200 animal bites to humans occur in Rhode Island. Children less than 10 years of age are the most likely victims (26 %). Half of these cases are bites from dogs, and 40 per cent are bites involving cats. The remainder are bites or contacts with raccoons, skunks, and other wildlife. While most bites are to the hand or arm, children are more likely than others to be bitten on the head and neck (38 %). Animal bites can expose victims to saliva which may contains rabies.

Many bites are sustained by well-intentioned individuals who approach an unfamiliar animal. Small children need adult supervision around animals to prevent their approaching or petting them. Dr. Nolan urges all to follow these guidelines, and parents to teach them to their children:

• Be cautious in approaching or contacting unfamiliar animals.
• Totally avoid contact with undomesticated, or wild animals. Secure
  outside garbage to prevent attracting wild or stray animals.
• Never leave infants or young children alone with any dog.
• Never engage in or encourage aggressive games with dogs.
• Do not disturb a dog or cat who is sleeping, eating, or caring for young.
• Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
• Remain motionless when approached by an unfamiliar dog.
• Never run from a dog and scream.
• If you are knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still.
• Do not try to corner a stray or roaming dog or cat yourself.
• Know how to reach your animal control officer.
• If bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
• Remember to vaccinate pets, as required by law.

For further information, contact the Office of Communicable Diseases, Dept. of Health, 222-2577, or Susan Littlefield, DVM, Office of the State Veterinarian, Dept. Of Environmental Management, 222-2781.