Plumas County public health officials identified the rabies virus in a gray fox in the Indian Valley area, they reported Dec. 6. The last detection of rabies in foxes in Plumas County was in 2022. In 2021, Plumas County had three reported cases in foxes and in 2023, there was one rabid bat.
“Rabies is a serious and nearly always fatal disease,” said Plumas County Health Officer Dr. Mark Satterfield, “but is 100 percent preventable. People should avoid contact with wild animals and seek immediate medical care if they are bitten by a wild animal.”
Rabies is a severe infection of the nervous system caused by a virus that is usually transmitted by a bite of a rabid animal. Rabies is nearly always fatal once clinical signs develop. Rabies is treatable with prompt medical attention and prophylaxis following a possible exposure.
Rabies is found in wild animals throughout California each year. In 2023, the California Department of Public Health reported rabies in 179 animals statewide, mostly in bats and skunks. Other wild animals, such as foxes, occasionally contract rabies. Household dogs and cats can also get rabies.
There is always a risk of contracting rabies from both wild and domestic animals. Plumas County Public Health officials advise residents to take the following measures to protect themselves, their pets and livestock from rabies.
- Avoid contact with wild animals. Rabid animals may appear aggressive, docile or injured. Do not approach any wild animal or attempt to feed or capture it.
- Discourage wildlife from residences by collecting uneaten pet food and keeping garbage bins covered and secure.
- Consult with a veterinarian to ensure that pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and consider vaccinating horses and other livestock.
- Report sightings of wild or stray animals that behave unusually.
- Seek immediate medical care if you are bitten by or have direct contact with an animal that draws blood. Healthcare providers will provide wound care and determine whether rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is needed.
- Report an animal bite to Plumas County Animal Control at (530) 283-3673. Animal Control may contact Fish and Wildlife to assist with the capture of certain wildlife.
For more information about rabies visit the county website or call (530) 283-6355.
Information provided by Plumas County Public Health Agency
