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Rabies (hydrophobia), La Rabia
Rabies is a viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It is transmitted from infected mammals to man and is invariably fatal once symptoms appear. Fortunately, only a few cases are reported each year in the United States. Rabies is almost always contracted by exposure to a rabid animal. The exposure is usually through a bite, but scratches and saliva contact with broken skin are also possible routes.
Health-care providers AND clinical laboratories are required to report cases and suspect cases of rabies to local health departments within 24 hours of diagnosis. On weekends and holidays, call 503/731-4030 to reach the state health department doctor on call.
Go to our disease reporting page for information on how to report and for telephone numbers of local health departments.
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