Kitten Found in D.C. Has Rabies, Officials Say

D.C. Department of Health officials reported today that a kitten found at the Anacostia Farmers Market has tested positive for rabies after biting five people.

The kitten, described as black with brown markings, was found by a resident last week at the market at 14th and U streets SE. The resident, three of her friends and a veterinarian tried to help the sick animal and were bitten. All five are undergoing rabies prophylaxis treatment, health officials said.

DOH staff members have posted flyers in the area of the farmers market and have talked with nearby residents and customers. They are advising anyone who might have had contact with the kitten to immediately contact the department at 202-576-6664.

The department also has initiated a trapping plan to capture any remaining stray cats in the area.

"The DOH has been in contact with veterinarians operating in the District," said Gregg Pane, director of the department. "Rabies vaccinations for cats and dogs are required by District law. We encourage all residents to vaccinate their pets and keep them from wandering freely in neighborhoods at large."

Dogs and cats may contract rabies if they have not been vaccinated against it.

Rabies, a fatal disease transmitted from animals to humans, is caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system, causing convulsions, paralysis and finally death.

The virus is present in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted primarily by animal bites. It can affect all warm-blooded animals but is most often found in raccoons, skunks, foxes and bats. A bear that tested positive for rabies in western Maryland earlier this month was the first in the state's history. The Maryland state biologist theorized that the animal had been scratched in a fight with a rabid raccoon.