Veterinary Public Health and
Rabies Control Program
7601 E. Imperial Hwy.
Bldg. 700 Suite 94A
Downey, CA 90242
Tel: (562) 401-7088
Fax: (562) 401-7112 vet@ph.lacounty.gov
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Bite and Rabies Suspect Reporting for Physicians and Veterinarians
Animal
bites to humans are reportable by law. Anyone with
knowledge of the bite should report, however physicians
and veterinarians are especially obligated. The
point of reporting is to determine whether the person
may have been exposed to rabies. This may only be
determined by quarantining and observing the animal for
signs of rabies, or by testing the animal.
Quarantines are performed in shelters and in animal's
homes.
Exception: rodent (mouse, rat squirrel, etc) and rabbit
bites are not reportable because rabies is very rare in
these species. However if the behavior of the
animal or the circumstances involving a rodent/rabbit
bite are strongly suggestive of rabies, contact our
program and ask to speak to a veterinarian about the
case.
Also
legally reportable is the exposure of a domestic animal
to a wild animal. See veterinary section below.
Animal
health workers are invited to register to receive Animal
Health Alerts by email. See registration form below in
the Resources section for veterinarians.
