Feline in Steele County Tests Positive for Rabies
A Steele County kitten is the second feline to test positive for the rabies virus this year. The property where the kitten resided is home to about one dozen stray cats. Over a period of three days, the kitten bit both property owners and began to act even more aggressively in the days that followed. On Sunday, September 13th the kitten was found dead. It tested positive for rabies on September 16th.
In addition to the 12 stray cats, there are two dogs on the property that have not been rabies vaccinated. The owners note occasionally smelling skunks, one of the primary wildlife reservoirs for rabies, around their property. The Minnesota Department of Health has advised post-exposure prophylaxis for both property owners.
For information on rabies in animals, visit https://www.bah.state.mn.us/rabies or call 651-201-6808. If you have questions on rabies in people, please contact the Minnesota Department of Health at 651-201-5414.
