The Hidden Menace in the Valley

During the past two years there has been a noticeable increase in the number of cases of rabies in Benton county. Only by and through the experiences of victims of the menace within the past few months, the Grange was prompted to make an investigation in regard to the best possible channel of disposition of patients who are so unfortunate as to be attacked and bitten by rabid animals. Rabies, or hydrophobia, is a specific, communicable disease affecting all warm-blooded animals, including man. The dog is especially susceptible and because of his roving habits is the chief disseminator of the disease. The bite of a rabid animal is not necessarily fatal; the virus is estimated to be transmitted in about 30 percent of cases, but when the disease is contracted and not treated, it is practically always fatal. The Pasteur treatment prevents many fatalities, but even with this precaution there is much anxiety, suffering, hardship, and expense. In regard to an attack where the skin has been punctured, the wound should be cauterized as soon as possible, and within five days the patient must be under medical attention so that serum may be administered. The patient should proceed to the Pasteur Institute, Seattle, Washington, where a nominal fee of $30.00 will be charged for treatments and serum.