Imported Dogs Cause Recent Rabies Scare in Illinois

 Posted on July 13, 2021 in Dog Bite Injuries

Though most people are aware of the existence of rabies, actually contracting it may seem unlikely. In fact, the United States has mostly eliminated rabies among domestic animals like dogs and cats, thanks to the efforts of animal control departments and vaccination requirements for pets. However, a recent situation in Illinois has brought to light the fact that some dogs may still carry rabies, and with this in mind, dog bite victims should take the risk of infection seriously.

Illinois Takes Precautions in Response to Possible Rabies Exposure

The recent rabies care in Illinois stems from a group of rescue dogs that arrived at O’Hare International Airport from Azerbaijan in June. One of the dogs in the group was soon transported to Pennsylvania, where it tested positive for rabies after showing symptoms. As of yet, none of the other dogs have shown signs of infection, but efforts are in place to isolate and closely monitor them, including two dogs that still remain in Lake County, Illinois. Starting on July 14, Illinois will also benefit from a one-year, nationwide ban on imported dogs from high-risk countries.

Rabies Control and Treatment

Despite recent events, the chances of a large-scale rabies outbreak in Illinois are low. Pets who have been properly vaccinated for rabies are unlikely to contract the disease, especially if their owners closely supervise them. Rabies is also very treatable among humans, provided that early intervention is possible. When a person may have been exposed to rabies, health care providers can administer a vaccine known as postexposure prophylaxis, which neutralizes the effects of the rabies virus.

If you are bitten by an unfamiliar dog or a wild animal, you should immediately see a doctor who can administer a rabies vaccine. Waiting to get medical help can allow the virus time to take hold, and it may prove fatal in a matter of days. If another dog attacks your dog, you should seek similar prompt treatment from a veterinarian.

Contact an Illinois Dog Bite Injury Attorney

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we are committed to working with dog bite injury victims to ensure they get the help they need. If you have been injured by a dog, we can help you identify the dog’s owner and pursue compensation for your medical expenses and other damages based on Illinois’s strict liability law for dog owners. With our assistance, you can be compensated for the costs of treatment for rabies and any other infections. For a free consultation with an Illinois dog bite lawyer, contact our office today by calling 630-552-6860.

Sources:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/06/19/dog-rabies-azerbaijan/

https://www.lakemchenryscanner.com/2021/06/21/health-department-investigating-after-dogs-possibly-with-rabies-flown-to-lake-county-from-another-country/

https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/animals/index.html