July 14, 2011 DHH advises residents of public health risk posed by area coyotesCoyotes, dead or alive, can transmit rabies to humans and their pets

- Recently, there has been an influx in the number of coyote sightings in residential areas throughout the state. Like any wild animal, coyotes living in urban settings pose a public safety risk as they can grow accustomed to humans and lose their natural instinct to distance themselves. Coyotes' natural diet consists of small animals like rabbits, mice, rats, birds, small deer, and young sheep and goats, making them a danger to pets as well.

"Coyotes are known to carry and transmit rabies. Even after a coyote is dead, exposure to its brain, spinal matter, saliva or other tissue can lead to rabies transmission," said State Public Health Veterinarian Gary A. Balsamo, DVM, MPH&TM. "Therefore, residents should avoid all contact. If contact is made with a coyote, dead or alive, the animal must be tested for rabies and the exposed humans may be required to start on post-exposure prophylaxis medication."

To ensure their safety, residents are encourage to take the following precautions:

The Louisiana Department of Health strives to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens. To learn more about LDH, visit http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov. For up-to-date health information, news and emergency updates, follow LDH's blog, Twitter account and Facebook.

Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein

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