Cat infected with rabies found in Marion County

MARION COUNTY, GA (WTVM) - The Marion County Health Department warns that a cat from the Fort Perry/Anthony Road area was tested Wednesday, Oct. 23, by the state laboratory and found to have rabies.

The cat is described as black with white markings. If you know of anyone that may have come in contact with this cat, please contact the Marion County Health Department at (229) 649-5664 or the Marion County Sheriff's Office at (229) 649-3841, and have them contact their physician.

Residents of this area are strongly advised to take the following precautions:

Do not pick up or handle any stray dogs or cats, or any wild animal. 
Report any animal bites to the Sheriff's office or the Health Department.
Contact the Sheriff's office or the Health Department to report any animals which are behaving strangely or aggressively 
If your pet is behaving strangely or is injured contact your local veterinarian immediately 
Teach children about the dangers of stray and wild animals.
Have all of your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies. Do not delay. See your veterinarian.

If you are bitten or scratched by any animal please:

1. Wash and rinse the wound thoroughly for several minutes
2. Apply a disinfectant,  
3. Seek medical attention immediately 
4. Report the bite to the Sheriff's office or the Health Department.

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