Trinity County Urges Pet Owners to Vaccinate Against Rabies

NORTHSTATE, Calif. — Trinity County Health and Human Services Agency is urging pet owners to keep their dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies. This call to action comes following an increase in confirmed rabid animal cases in the area.

The Health Agency reported that rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear but is also nearly completely preventable through vaccination. The disease spreads naturally among wild animals such as bats, skunks, and foxes, and unvaccinated pets can transmit the virus to humans.

Given the rural nature of Trinity County, the agency emphasizes the increased risk of pets encountering wildlife. Therefore, vaccinations are crucial for ensuring public safety. Local veterinary clinics offer rabies vaccines for pets, which are essential to create a barrier against the virus.

For individuals who have been bitten or exposed to a confirmed rabid animal, the agency recommends seeking Rabies Prophylaxis treatment, available at emergency rooms or through primary care providers. Trinity County Public Health continues to monitor rabies activity closely and collaborates with animal control for early detection to protect the community.

For further information, residents can contact Trinity County Public Health at (530) 623-8209.