VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- What risk do our woodland creatures pose to us? Rabies

According to the Oklahoma State Health Department, seven rabies cases were confirmed in Garfield County this year and can be found typically in bats, skunks, raccoons and foxes.

Rabies is most often transmitted through the bite or scratch from an infected animal or when saliva of the infected animal comes into contact with an open wound or mucous membrane, such as nose or mouth. Simple contact with a wild animal will not result in rabies.

People who are bitten by an animal should first wash the wound with soap and water and immediately contact a physician or go to a hospital emergency room to determine whether to have tetanus or rabies shots.

All animal bites must be reported immediately to a local animal control office or the county health department. The 71st Medical Group reminds pet owners of the importance of having their animals up to date on rabies vaccinations. Without proper treatment, rabies is a fatal disease. Pet vaccination is a primary prevention measure to keep the virus from passing from wildlife to pets and people.

Vance Air Force Base requires all base family housing occupants to register their pets on base within 30 days. Oklahoma State law also requires vaccination of all pets. For more information about rabies vaccination of pets, call the Tinker AFB Veterinary Clinic at (405) 884-5780.

People can protect themselves from rabies by using the following measures:
· Avoid all contact with wild or stray animals
· Vaccinate family pets such as dogs and cats and keep vaccinations current
· Obtain prompt medical care if bitten by an animal
· Report all animal bites to the local animal control division and contact the 71st Medical Group Public Health office at 213-7986
· Keep pet food indoors at night to prevent skunks, raccoons, foxes and other wildlife from becoming unwanted visitors near homes

Bottom line is to educate family members on the importance of not interacting with animals that are not theirs, regardless of how cute or harmless they may appear. (Courtesy of the 71st MDG)