From the local news....
Feral Cat Rabies Incident
On Sunday, April 9, 2006, a calico cat (black, cream, and yellowish markings) located in the Burt Dam area of Fisherman’s Park in Newfane, NY was confirmed positive for Rabies. This cat, a member of a maintained colony of unvaccinated feral cats, was submitted to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Laboratory after over a week of exhibiting abnormal behavior. If anyone believes he or she has had contact with this cat any time from March 17 through April 5, notify the Niagara County Department of Health Nursing Division Communicable Disease Control Program at 716-439-7456 (business hours) or 716-439-7430, to determine whether an exposure has occurred.
Rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system and is fatal if allowed to incubate. Timely treatment with post-exposure prophylaxis, however, is 100% effective. This incident serves as a reminder that rabies (raccoon and bat) is found in Western New York and illustrates the importance of mandatory dog, cat, and ferret Rabies vaccinations. Residents should avoid feeding and any other contact with wild animals and feral cats. If anyone is bitten or scratched by any animal, or if a bat is found in close proximity to a child or a person who is sleeping or intoxicated, they should contact their health care provider and the Niagara County Department of Health. For information on animal rabies and animal rabies vaccination, contact the Niagara County Department of Health Environmental Division Rabies Control Program at 716-439-7511 (business hours) or 716-439-7430. (4/12/06)