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BIRDSBORO, Pa .– The Berks County Animal Rescue League confirmed Friday that a cat impounded in Birdsboro by the ARL’s Animal Welfare Department tested positive for rabies.
The cat, a medium-sized shorthair calico, was captured near the intersection of East Main Street and North Water Street after a call for help from the Birdsboro Police Department.
“We immediately answered the patrol officer’s call and secured the chat,” said Sgt. Hayden Carroll of the ARL Animal Welfare Department.
“At the moment, we know that this cat bit a resident, who has already been warned and received appropriate treatment,” Carroll said. “If anyone else has been bitten or scratched by an animal in this area, they should seek medical attention immediately.”
The Birdsboro Police Department confirmed that a female in the borough was bitten by the cat. No other information was released.
Rabies infects the central nervous system of mammals, according to the CDC, ultimately causing brain disease and death in 99.9% of human cases if left untreated.
Although 90% of reported cases of rabies in animals occur in wild animals – mainly skunks, raccoons, bats, coyotes and foxes – the virus can be transmitted to dogs, cats and cattle. who have not been vaccinated.
“The most important action to prevent rabies in dogs and cats is to make sure their rabies vaccine is up to date and to keep them away from unfamiliar animals, especially wildlife,” Dr Jason said. Banning, ARL medical director.
For humans who have been exposed to rabies, the incubation period can last weeks or months and can vary depending on the distance between the site of exposure and the brain.
Common symptoms of rabies in humans include discomfort or a tingling or itching sensation at the bite site, progressing over a few days to acute symptoms of brain dysfunction, anxiety, confusion, and restlessness. As the disease progresses, the person may experience delirium, abnormal behaviors, hallucinations, hydrophobia, and insomnia.
“Residents should be on the lookout for other animals in the area showing signs of rabies and should not leave their pets unattended,” Carroll said.
He added, “If you suspect an animal is infected with rabies, please immediately call your municipality’s animal control provider or local police department and do not approach the animal in any way.”
ARL is not the contracted animal control provider for Birdsboro.
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