Thirteen cases of rabies have already hit Guilford County this year and now health officials there are scrambling to halt the disease.
GREENSBORO -- Thirteen cases of rabies have already hit Guilford County this year -- two last week alone -- and now health officials there are scrambling, trying to halt the spread of the disease.
"We're seeing a lot of wild animals coming into our spaces, our backyards, our living spaces," explained Sandy Ellington with the Guilford County Department of Public Health.
While Ellington said the 13 reported cases of rabies so far this year is on track with past years, she the the potential for an outbreak is quickly adding up.
"Once we have wild animals that expose our domestic pets, then the chances of rabies goes up. That is why prevention is the key. That is why you need to have the animal vaccinated."
It's estimated 80,000 to 140,000 dogs and cats in Guilford County have not had their rabies vaccine.
"A lot of people don't think that they need to get their animals vaccinated because they're inside animals. They're not outside animals."
But Ellington said those animals are at risk just as much as other animals. That's why the Department of Public Health is teaming up with area animal shelters to stop the spread of the disease by offering low-cost vaccine clinics.
“If people do not get their pets vaccinated then and they are exposed to a wild animal then they can become rabid, so we're very concerned about that," Ellington added.
The annual $5 fix can offer a lifetime of protection.
"Bottom line is you have got to get your pets vaccinated. In order to keep them safe and in order to keep your family safe from rabies, you have got to get your pet vaccinated."
The next rabies clinic is Saturday, July 26 at the Summerfield Fire Department. It's from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For a complete list of clinics, call (336) 641-7777.