4 rabid goats linked to touring petting zoo that visited Durham County :: WRAL.com

A potential rabies exposure is related to a touring petting zoo that visited Durham County twice this month.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is warning that 4 goats from the petting zoo examined optimistic for rabies. The zoo was in Durham County on Aug. 16 and Aug. 23 for separate non-public occasions, in line with NCDHHS. 

The zoo additionally made stops in Statesville, Lexington, Watauga County, Burke County and Mocksville between July 28 and Aug. 27. Public well being officers are working with occasion organizers to inform those that may need had contact with the goats. In Lexington, the zoo was a part of a back-to-school bash.

NCDHHS stated anybody who could have been impacted ought to contact their local health department. People who’re involved ought to name earlier than going to an emergency division or pressing care clinic to seek out out whether or not remedy is required and the place it’s obtainable.

Farm Adventures, the touring petting zoo that organized the occasions, said the goats were euthanized to prevent any further spread of the virus. The zoo stated the goats had been bitten by a skunk, which led to the rabies diagnoses.

“The affected animals, our four precious baby goats, have been euthanized to prevent further spread,” the zoo stated in a Facebook submit. “We will be closely monitoring our remaining animals under the guidelines provided by health officials.”

The goats had been named Molly, Maggie, Cow and Uno. Farm Adventures relies in Iredell County.

A name heart has been set as much as reply questions at 336-242-2371. Health officers stated extra info shall be launched if the decision heart is required on Sunday.