Rabid Stray Cat Scratched Someone In Coventry: RIDOH

COVENTRY, RI — A stray cat found in the area of Newell Court in Coventry tested positive for rabies Thursday, the Rhode Island Department of Health reported.

"The cat was tested after scratching a person in that area on" Monday, RIDOH said in a media release.

"Rabies is a fatal disease if it is not treated before the onset of symptoms," the release said.

The department advised anyone who may have had direct contact to "immediately call" its Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 401-222-2577. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

After hours, those who fear exposure should call 401-276-8046 "so a nurse can assess your exposure and determine if you should receive treatment," the release said.

"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," the release said.

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The person who suffered the cat scratch, along with a second person who had contact with the rabid cat, "have started treatment with post-exposure prophylaxis," RIDOH said.

Rabies is potentially deadly, RIDOH warned.

"The rabies virus infects the central nervous system," the department said. "If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies treatment must be started as soon as possible after exposure and before symptoms appear."