Cat in Coventry Tests Positive for Rabies After Scratching Individual - RIDOH Issues Alert

Cat in Coventry Tests Positive for Rabies After Scratching Individual - RIDOH Issues Alert

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is alerting the public that a stray cat found in the area of Newell Court in Coventry tested positive for rabies on July 10.

According to RIDOH, the cat was tested "after scratching a person in that area on July 7."

RIDOH says the person who was initially scratched by the cat and a second person who had contact with the cat have started treatment with post-exposure prophylaxis.  

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On Friday, RIDOH issued the following statement:

Rabies is a fatal disease if it is not treated before the onset of symptoms. 

Anyone who may have had direct contact with the cat should immediately call RIDOH’s Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 401-222-2577 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.) or 401-276-8046 after hours so a nurse can assess your exposure and determine if you should receive treatment.

If you think your pet may have come in contact with this cat, call RIDOH, your local Animal Control Officer, and your pet’s veterinarian.