WATER POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY
HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted in the saliva of infected mammals. Rabies is almost always fatal to animals and humans. The most effective way to prevent human rabies is to ensure your dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies and to avoid contact with wild animals. Rabies continues to circulate in wildlife in Madison, primarily among raccoons, skunks and bats. Approximately 20 wild animals from Madison have been tested for the presence of rabies each year since 1995, and one or two are found to be positive.

Treatment is available for humans and pets bitten by wild or suspected rabid animals. In any instance where you or your pet contacts a wild or unknown animal you should call the Madison Animal Control Officer at 203-245-2721 or the Madison Health Department at 203-245-5681 for evaluation of the situation and follow-up procedures.

• If possible, carefully capture wild animal for rabies testing using gloves, shovel, net, etc; brain must be intact for rabies testing. Double-bag animal and refrigerate in disposable cooler until retrieved by Town official.
• Use gloves, where possible, when handling your pet after such a fight to minimize your exposure to any saliva.
• Immediately wash any wound and your hands with soap and water after contact with your pet or a wild animal.
• Isolate your pet from family members to minimize their exposure.
• Seek medical attention for any such contact.