(WXYZ) — There's a rabies warning in Oakland County after a family's pet cat contracted the virus.
At least five people were exposed including a child.
Rabies can be spread to people and pets if they're bitten or scratched by a rabid animal, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
WARNING: A Birmingham family’s cat contracted rabies. At least five people were exposed. The cat attacked a vet. @OakGov Health Center telling pet owners to get their cats and dogs vaccinated.
— Rudy Harper (@RudyHarperWXYZ) November 16, 2019
Resource: https://t.co/dsQONV81Ct@wxyzdetroit
In a news release, the Oakland County health department urged residents to stay away from animals such as skunks, bats, raccoons, foxes, and stray cats and dogs.
"If you become infected by rabies it's 100% lethal," said Dr. Russell Faust, Medical Director at Oakland County Health Center. "It's also 100% preventable."
The dangers can lurk in unsuspecting places.
In 2019, rabies has been verified in four bats, eleven skunks, and one cat in Oakland County, according to the press release.
Veterinarians say having pets vaccinated regularly will protect them if exposed to animals. The Michigan Humane Society offers rabies vaccinations for $5.
For more information: click here https://www.michiganhumane.org/protect-a-pet-clinics/
