Animal Bites & Rabies Surveillance

Animal Bites
In the state of Pennsylvania, animal bites and scratches are reported to the local health authorities for the investigation of rabies. If the animal resides within the city limits, the Bethlehem Health Bureau investigates each incident, and makes the appropriate recommendations to the parties involved. If you have been bitten by an animal, or have come in contact with an animal that may have rabies, contact the Health Bureau at (610) 865-7087.

Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease most frequently transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. The saliva of an infected animal that comes in contact with an open wound, a fresh abrasion or scratch, or the eye can also transmit rabies. Raccoons, skunks, bats and ground hogs are among some of the high-risk group of wild animals to transmit the virus.

If an animal bites you, wash the wound thoroughly with plenty of soap and water and contact your physician about medical treatment. Pets exposed to a possibly rabid animal should be confined, isolated and handled as little as possible. A veterinarian should be contacted for advice on the treatment of your pet.

Unvaccinated dogs and cats are a threat to spread the disease. They have frequent contact with humans and wild domestic animals. As of February 13, 1987, it is a law in Pennsylvania to have pet dogs and cats over 3 months of age vaccinated for rabies.

In addition to the investigation and surveillance activities, the Bethlehem Health Bureau also holds an annual rabies vaccination clinic for cats and dogs that live within the city limits. The clinic is usually held at the end of spring or beginning of the summer months.

For more information on rabies, please see the related linkssection of this Web site.