CDC Warns of 100% Fatal Rabies Threat with Multiple California

Officials in several California counties are warning residents about an increase in rabid animals, as health officials report a nationwide rise in rabies exposures. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued an alert to healthcare providers after seeing more people exposed to the deadly disease. The CDC says the number of people receiving rabies immunoglobulin shots, given after exposure to prevent infection, is up 76% compared with the same period last year. Rabies vaccine use has also increased by 33%. The CDC says anyone bitten, scratched or otherwise potentially exposed to a rabid animal should immediately contact a healthcare provider or public health department. The September 10 advisory also provides guidance to clinicians on properly administering rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin, including where the treatments should be given and who should receive them. The warning comes as multiple California jurisdictions report more animals testing positive for rabies this year.