Current News and Events

Rabies vaccine to be mandatory for pet dogs, cats, and ferrets in Washington, November 30, Department of Health News Release

Zoonotic Disease Workshops - Register now for the workshop in Moses Lake on April 11 or April 13 in Tumwater. Professionals who are working towards reducing the public health impact of zoonotic diseases are encouraged to attend.

What's a Zoonotic Disease?

A zoonotic disease or zoonosis (plural is zoonoses) is any disease of animals that can be transmitted to humans, such as rabies or West Nile virus.

Topics

Zoonotic disease topics that affect people in Washington State, including rare and reportable diseases.

New Rules Start January 1st

• Rabies vaccination for pet dogs, cats, and ferrets must be current. Pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about making sure their pet's vaccinations are up-to-date.

• Animal vendors of reptiles, amphibians, poultry chicks, and psittacine birds must provide educational materials to help prevent the spread of disease.

• Animal venue operators must have signs posted to help prevent animal transmitted diseases.

Learn more about other zoonotic disease rules and guidelines.

Educational Materials

Brochures, posters, and other outreach materials on rabies, hantavirus, rodent control, psittacosis, salmonella, and West Nile virus.

Surveillance Reports

Environmental monitoring and human disease reports.

Veterinarian Resources

Resources for veterinarians, including the Canine Leptospirosis Reporting Form (PDF 47KD).

Disease Reporting

Health care providers, labs, veterinarians, schools, and daycares are required to report suspected or confirmed cases of zoonotic diseases.