Rabies

If you have been bitten or scratched by an unfamiliar animal or wildlife, please follow the instructions below:

Information for Providers

Patient with a bite, scratch, or injury from an animal?

Please contact the Texas DSHS PHR 2/3 Zoonosis Program at (817) 264-4920 for guidance regarding Rabies PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis).

To report the animal bite or scratch to Wichita Falls Animal Services, call (940) 761-7824. After hours: (940) 720-2947.

Wichita Falls–Wichita County Public Health District (WFWCPHD) is no longer the default contact for rabies or PEP guidance. Please contact Texas DSHS for information. Additionally, WFWCPHD as a depot requires approval from Texas DSHS to dispense PEP during business hours. Contact Texas DSHS to begin the rabies treatment process.

Information for Patients

What is rabies?

Rabies is a virus that infects mammals. Rabies is transmitted through saliva, most commonly from a bite or scratch of an infected animal.

Why should I be concerned about rabies?

Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. After symptoms of rabies virus begin, treatment is no longer effective. While rabies is not common in humans, it should not be ignored.

What is rabies treatment?

Rabies “treatment” is the Rabies Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) series. Timely administration of PEP effectively prevents rabies.

The animal that bit or scratched me did not “look” rabid?

Rabies can NOT be ruled out based on the animal’s appearance or behavior. Rabies can only be completely ruled out by sending the animal to be tested.

If an animal bites or scratches you, follow these steps:

Thoroughly wash the bite with soap and water. Put an antiseptic on it to kill germs. See a doctor as soon as possible.
Your doctor, with guidance from the state, will decide if treatment is needed. If you choose not to see a doctor, call the DSHS number listed so they can help you determine if treatment is indicated.
The local rabies control authority needs to have any biting dog, cat, domestic ferret, or high risk rabies carriers (fox, bat, coyote, skunk, raccoon) tested for rabies or observed for 240 hours / ten days.

Please contact the Texas DSHS PHR 2/3 Zoonosis Program at (817) 264-4920 for information regarding rabies treatment.

Animal Services can be reached at (940) 761-7824. After hours: (940) 720-2947.