Rabid cat found in Baldwin

A feral cat found in Baldwin has tested positive for rabies, according to the Allegheny County Health Department.

It is the 23rd rabid animal reported in the county so far this year.

The cat was discovered near the intersection of Campbell and Fidelity drives. It was brought to a state laboratory where it tested positive for rabies, the health department said.

Rabies is a virus transmitted by an animal bite or scratch. It is almost always fatal when left untreated.

People should always avoid contact with stray and wild animals to avoid potential rabies exposure and to make sure their pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations, the health department said.

Any individual who is bitten, scratched or otherwise exposed to saliva from a stray or any other animal should immediately cleanse the contact area with soap and water, seek emergency medical treatment and call the health department at 412-687-2243.

In addition to the cat, other animals that have tested positive for rabies this year include 16 raccoons, five bats and one other cat.