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Chicago Confirms First Rabies-Positive Dog in 61 Years

Investigators are testing the virus strain to determine how a vaccinated rescue dog was exposed.

Overview

  • Thirteen people with direct contact have begun post-exposure prophylaxis, and officials report no symptoms.
  • The CDC has received the virus sample to help identify the rabies variant and trace its origin.
  • The USDA will retest samples from the rabies vaccine lot given to the dog in June as part of the review.
  • The dog, under a year old, was transferred to PAWS Chicago from a Southeastern U.S. rescue before a July adoption, and its precise origin remains under review.
  • Following a Dec. 11 bite and worsening behavior, the dog was euthanized Dec. 18 and confirmed positive Dec. 19, prompting notifications to pet owners for boosters and 45-day home monitoring when indicated.