From the Washington State Department of Health and the Northwest Center for Public Health Practice:

Rabies Prevention in Washington State:

A Guide for Practitioners

Revised July 2001

Written by David Blythe et al.
Designed and produced for the World Wide Web by Phillip Dunham
June, 1998

INTRODUCTION

Throughout human history, few illnesses have provoked as much anxiety as has rabies. Known as a distinct entity since at least 500 B.C., rabies has been the subject of myths and legends across time and cultures. And while the incidence of human cases in the US has declined markedly over several decades, rabies continues to inspire dread today. The recent deaths of two Washington residents from rabies and the highly-publicized discovery of bats in the Governor's Mansion have lead to heightened public concern about rabies in this state. Amidst this concern is a great deal of misinformation about the disease.

This guide is designed to provide practitioners the information they need to prevent rabies. It is meant to be used by practicing physicians and other health care providers, veterinarians, local health department staff, and animal control personnel. The information contained herein is an amalgamation of the observations and recommendations of a number of agencies and organizations. It is divided into five major sections:

  1. The clinical features of rabies (in humans and other animals)
  2. The epidemiology of rabies
  3. How to evaluate encounters with a potentially rabid animal
  4. Details about laboratory testing of animals in Washington
  5. Rabies prevention measures
Cover Graphic
Bats are the most commonly rabid animal in Washington state.
While many of the principles of rabies prevention discussed in this guide apply generally, much of the information is specific to Washington state. Readers from other states should consult their state or local health department with questions regarding appropriate measures in their area.

This monograph was produced for the World Wide Web by the Northwest Center for Public Health Practice in cooperation with the Washington State Department of Health. See references for further acknowledgements.