According to a news release, September and October often have the highest number of laboratory-confirmed rabies cases.

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District offers the following precautions to help lower the risk of being exposed to rabies:

n Keep cats and ferrets indoors, and keep dogs indoors or in a fenced yard.

n Spay or neuter pets to prevent unwanted animals.

n Teach children not to play with animals they don't know.

n Avoid animals that appear disoriented, fearless or aggressive. Nighttime animals such as bats, raccoons and skunks that are active in the daytime may be sick.

n Stay away from wild animals.

n Don't touch any wild animal, especially if it appears ill or dead.

n Don't leave pet food outdoors unattended. Keep garbage in a covered container.

n Prevent bats from entering your home by making sure all potential entries are closed.

Rabies is a viral illness that affects the central nervous system. Rabies can be fatal. However, a series of post-exposure shots, if given in time, can prevent rabies from developing.