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A dozen rabies cases confirmed in East Texas

The Texas Department of State Health Services said there are 12 confirmed cases of rabies across East Texas.

PITTSBURG — Dr. Dan Kincaid said there are two types of rabies animals could deal with. He said there's a "dumb" form where the animal acts friendly and oblivious. The other, which is commonly noticed, is the "rage" form. That's when the animal acts overly aggressive. After two unvaccinated dog in Camp County tested positive, Dr. Kincaid said rabies could pose a problem for the rest of 2018.

"It's hard to understand the cycle, but its just cycles in and out," Dr. Kincaid said.

The Texas Department of State Health Services said there 12 confirmed cases of rabies across East Texas. Skunks and bats are usually the issue around here.

Rabies is a virus that attacks the nervous system. One bite from an infected animal could end deadly for humans, if not treated. Dr. Dalia Nessim, a physician from the UT Health of Texas, Health Science Center at Tyler, said prevention is key. It could take three to 10 weeks for a symptoms to show in Humans: fever, headache and fatigue.

Dr. Nessim said it's best to get treated, even if there is uncertainty. Recovery includes a series of shots.

"One of shot of immunoglobulin and four shots of vaccinations," Dr. Nessim said.

Doctors also suggested pet owners should stay on top of their vaccinations. Actually, Texas Law requires pet owners to have shots up-to-date.

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