frigatebirds:

Here’s your periodic reminder that

rabies has the highest case mortality rate of any known pathogen

not only does the test for rabies require the animal to be destroyed (even if it ends up negative), if a human being contracts the virus, they will die. Rabies is fatal to virtually any mammal it infects. there is no treatment and no cure. not for cats, dogs, racoons, or people.

vaccinate your dogs and cats, and do not handle any wild animals, especially those that are acting unusually. confusion, lethargy, and other “tame” behaviors can all be symptoms of rabies. if you are concerned, call a rehab center. animal rehab workers are vaccinated against rabies and can safely handle potentially infected animals.

take rabies seriously please