Rabies

What can I do if I have been exposed?

• Don’t panic . . . but don’t ignore the bite, either. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and lots of water. Washing thoroughly will greatly lessen the chance of infection. Give first aid as you would for any wound.
• If possible, capture the animal under a large box or can, or at least identify it before it runs away. Don’t try to pick the animal up. Call an animal control or law enforcement officer to come get it.
• If you are bitten by a domestic animal, try to get the owner’s contact information.  If you are bitten by a wild animal and you are able to safely euthanize it, try not to destroy the brain tissue.  Don’t kill wild animals at random because an animal may have tested positive for rabies in your area.  Only a few wild animals will be carrying rabies.
• Call your doctor immediately. Explain how you got the bite and follow the doctor’s advice.
• Contact your local Health Department.