A cat in the area near the intersection of Atlanta Highway and McFarland Parkway (Alpharetta) has tested positive for Rabies following capture overnight on Jan. 29.

“The resident brought the cat into the Pet Resource Center, and it suffered a medical complication that was consistent with an animal presenting with Rabies,” said Forsyth County Animal Services Manager Haley Brown. “The prompt observation and testing yielded a positive result, and we encourage others to come forward if their animals are symptomatic,” said Brown.

Public health officials will notify any individuals who have been exposed to risks and will inform them of the need to seek medical care if necessary.

To report a wild animal acting strangely, avoid the animal and contact Forsyth County Animal Services at (770) 781-2138. If it is after business hours, contact the Forsyth County 911 Center after hours line at (770) 781-3087. To report an animal bite, immediately call the Georgia Poison Control Center helpline at 1(800) 222-1222 for medical instructions.

The Rabies Virus can be transmitted to domestic animals and humans only when the virus is introduced into bite wounds, open cuts in the skin, or onto mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth. Rabies is a viral infection transmitted in the saliva of infected mammals and enters the central nervous system of the host causing an inflammation of the brain that is almost always fatal. Wildlife remains the most likely potential source of infection for both humans and domestic animals in the United States since the most common carriers of Rabies are raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes and bats. For more information pertaining to the Rabies Virus, visit Forsyth County Animal Services online.

“Encounters between wild animals and domestic pets, including some that involved people, have increased recently, so we encourage all residents to have their pets vaccinated against the Rabies Virus and be educated on what to do if they encounter a potentially rabid animal.”

Georgia Rabies Control Law-O.C.G.A. 13-19 mandates that every cat and dog be vaccinated for Rabies by a licensed veterinarian to protect them and prevent spread of the disease. For more about Rabies Virus vaccinations for pets, ask your veterinarian, or visit the Department of Public Health (DPH) online.