Rabies continues to be a menace in Jefferson Parish, Dr. L. R. B. Centanni, head of the Jefferson. Parish Health Unit, declared today as he urged continuing vigilance. among dog owners.
About 200 dogs a .month are being picked up in the parish by the health unit's four rabies control officers operating two trucks. In spite of this, the menace still exists, Dr. Centanni explained.
He said the most; recent case of definitely known rabid dog was in Harvey, where the animal was said to have bitten three children.
Contrary to popular belief, rabies is not a hot weather disease, Five rabid dogs were discovered in February, The new case in Harvey brings the parish total for March to four. Last July and August the records showed five rabid dogs were found. Dr. Centanni
said that unless extra precautions are taken by dog owners, the hot months will advance the incidence of rabies. Officers Murphy Sannasardo, Harold Wood, Harold; Clark and Alvin Adams are doing a good job, the health director said, but without help the danger will continue to be grave.
Jefferson Parish now has a new medical services director to assist Dr. Centanni. He is Dr. John M. Bruce of New Orleans a 1951 graduate of Louisiana State Medical School.
