This is the Official Word we have been waiting for.  Whomever is keeping
the US list of states' positions, please change the info.  (Ferrets are
still illegal in Gaston County, NC).
 
Shari Gunter
Club Contact
Triangle Ferret Lovers club, NC
http://www.trifl.org
 
+++++++
 
North Carolina Dept of Health & Human Services
Division of Epidemiology
 
October 6, 1998
 
 TO:  Local Health Directors
        Local Animal Control Departments
 
 FROM:  Lee Hunter, DVM, MPH
             Public Health Vet
             Medical Evaluation and Risk Assessment Branch
             Occupational & Env. Epidemiology Sec.
 
 SUBJECT:  Disposition of Ferrets that Bite a Person
 
"...Because of the information learned... the NASPHV has recommended that
ferrets that bite a person should be confined and observed for 10 days from
the time of the bite as long as the ferret is healthy and not demonstrating
signs compatible with rabies... the ferret should be evaluated by a
veterinarian at the first sign of illness during confinement, and such
illness should be reported... If rabies is suspected the ferret should be
tested immediately.
 
If the ferret does not exhibit signs compatible with rabies during the
10-day confinement period, post-exposure treatment may not be warranted.
However, the final decision regarding initiation of treatment remains
between the patient and his or her physician.
 
 ...the Attorney General's Office have determined that the current statutes
allow for a 10-day confinement and observation period for ferrets as an
alternative to laboratory testing.
 
 ...RM Imrab 3 rabies vaccine...It is license for use in a 1mL dose to be
given subcutaneously on an annual basis.  Rabies tags and certificates may
be distributed along with vaccination at the discretion of the
veterinarian...."
[Posted in FML issue 2462]