AUSTIN, Minn. — Two southern Minnesota farm children have undergone treatment for the dreaded viral disease rabies. The state Health Department said a usually affectionate cat bit the children on June 29. The children were put into post-exposure treatment right away. The cat was euthanized. As a precaution the farmer shot other outdoor cats on the property. A dog that perhaps had been bitten by the cat was given a booster rabies shot and placed under 45 days confinement for observation.
Rabies profile
Rabies is a rare but fatal disease. About 10 human infections a year occur in the United States. Rabies is common, however, among wild animals, particularly bats, racoons, skunks and foxes. The virus attacks the nervous system and brain. Animals go berserk and attack viciously. Transmission is usually through skin-puncturing bites and scratches. In the United States vaccination of pets is required.