(November 18, 2008) -- Two Waco residents are undergoing rabies treatments after they came into contact with a kitten that was confirmed to have the disease on Monday
The McLennan County Public Health District has issued a warning to residents to avoid wild or strange animals.
The district has reported four cases of rabies during 2008, most of which are attributable to skunks.
No cases of rabies have been confirmed in humans.
Potential rabies exposure in humans can result in extensive treatments.
Exposure in humans comes from animal bites because the rabies virus is transmitted through saliva.
All mammals, including humans, are susceptible to rabies. This deadly viral disease is usually found in Texas wildlife, most notably skunks, bats, raccoons, coyotes and foxes.
To avoid potential rabies exposure, The Waco-McLennan County Public Health District recommends the following: vaccinate your family pets against rabies regularly, never approach or have direct contact with unfamiliar or wild animals, avoid direct contact with stray cats and dogs, never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.