Rabies cases up in Oklahoma

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Rabies cases are on the rise in Oklahoma. <br><br>The state Health Department says there were 126 rabies cases reported last year. That's more than double compared the number

Wednesday, April 9th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Rabies cases are on the rise in Oklahoma.

The state Health Department says there were 126 rabies cases reported last year. That's more than double compared the number from 2001.

And this year, 49 animals have tested positive.

State Veterinarian Doctor Kristy Bradley says her office has already conducted as many rabies exposure assessments as it usually does in a whole year.

Rabies alerts have been issued for Bryan, Beckham, Major and Roger Mills counties. Bradley says more counties are likely to follow.

More than 70% of the state's rabies cases occur in skunks.