Public Service Announcement -Courtesy of the North American Lycan Association
As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, many of you will be spending more time in your phased state. This can come with a number of unique challenges, but here at N.A.L.A. we would like to take a moment to speak on one of the greatest dangers to Lycans.
Few illnesses pose as much of a threat, not only to an individual Lycan but entire communities, as rabies. The robust immune system of Lycans can do nothing to resist the degradation and death brought by a bite from a rabid animal. It can however make an infected Lycan an unpredictable threat to the lives of any who have the misfortune to interact with them in the final stages of the disease.
Proceeding the Maple Ridge Incident*, The International Conference on Measures to Prevent the Spread of Rabies (ICMPSR) created a charter of international laws and recommendations for Lycan and Non-Lycan individuals in hopes of preventing future rabies related tragedies. The full charter can be found through the US Department of Lycan Affairs, The Canadian Lycanthropic Rights Commission, or The Mexican Lycanthropy Institute. A digital copy can also be read on the official ICMPSR website.
Recommended Precautions
Ensure that your rabies vaccination is up to date before the next full moon. Rabies vaccination is mandatory for all Lycans residing in the US, Mexico, and Canada. Failure to vaccinate cubs is considered medical abuse and will result in criminal charges and potential loss of parental rights.
Avoid phasing within areas declared high-risk for rabies. Per the ICMPSR charter, the governments of Canada, Mexico, and the US must keep records of all rabies cases. Information on current quarantine zones can be found on the official ICMPSR website.
Plan full moon hunts in advance. Be aware of any rabies cases reported in your intended hunting zone.
Do not hunt known rabies vectors. Raccoons, Bats, Skunks, Foxes, and Coyotes are known carriers of rabies as well as a number of parasites and other illnesses. When looking for small prey for cubs, consider Principles of Lycanthropy's chapters on Instinctual Outlets for more appropriate recommendations.
After a hunt, ensure that any remains are properly disposed of. Hunted remains that are not preserved for latter consumption should be buried or burned to avoid attracting animals
Supervise cubs at all times. Young Lycan may not recognize the signs of a rabid animal. Cubs should never be left alone in areas frequented by wildlife, especially during full moons.
Report sightings of potently rabid animals.
If you suspect you or a loved one may have been bitten by a rabid animal, report your case to your local health agency and proceed with quarantine protocol.
If we all work together with vigilance, we can help protect our packs and communities from the devastating effects of rabies.
Have A Safe Full Moon!
*See Principals of Lycanthropy for further reading
