Possibly Rabid Animal Bites Walmart Shoppers In Rhode Island
WESTERLY, R.I. (CBS) – Public health officials are alerting people to a possible rabies exposure in Westerly, Rhode Island after an animal bit several customers at a Walmart on the Fourth of July.
The incident happened at the Walmart store on Post Road Monday between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.
At least two people were reportedly bitten by a small black mammal that might have been a ferret, mink or weasel, according to authorities. Those two people have not yet come forward to seek medical attention.
The animal was not tested, and the concern is that it might have been rabid. Rabies is fatal in humans and animals once symptoms appear, according to the health officials.
Anyone who may have had any contact with the animal inside or outside the store is asked to contact the Rhode Island Department of Health so they can be immunized.