Franklin County notices 10th rabies case this year

Franklin County reports its 10th confirmed rabies case of the year and calls on residents to vaccinate pets.

Franklin County alerts residents as 10th rabies case confirmed, urges pet vaccination

Franklin County Animal Services confirmed its 10th animal rabies case of the year. Officials said the county is coordinating with the Franklin County Health Department to manage exposures and enforce quarantines. Six of the ten cases involved skunks, with two raccoons, one fox and one bat also identified.

Health Director Scott LaVigne stressed that rabies is nearly 100 percent fatal in humans once symptoms appear, and that four to five post exposure shots can prevent infection. He noted that several domestic animals involved in recent cases had not received a rabies vaccine, highlighting a vaccination gap among pets. Officials also outlined practical steps for residents: vaccinate pets and keep vaccinations current, supervise dogs outdoors, avoid feeding wildlife, secure garbage cans, and call Animal Services if an animal shows rabies symptoms. The county is hosting a rabies vaccination event on Saturday, August 23 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Franklin County Animal Shelter, with a $15 vaccine fee.

The pattern here is familiar: wildlife remains the primary carrier of rabies, and outbreaks in animals can quickly raise household risk. The local response emphasizes clear, actionable steps rather than fear, aiming to boost turnout for vaccination and reduce exposure. The event also points to a practical lever for change—affordable, accessible vaccination clinics that can close gaps seen in domestic pet vaccination.

This situation tests community trust in public health messaging. Officials’ focus on vaccination as the best defense reflects a long-standing strategy, but success requires ongoing outreach and sustained access to vaccines. The upcoming vaccine event is a test case for effectiveness of local health initiatives in turning awareness into action.

Highlights

Prevention is a shared effort that keeps families and pets safer.