A Fleming couple and their two children are undergoing preventive treatment for rabies after the family dog tested positive for the disease, according to the Coastal Health District.The dog was not up-to-date on rabies vaccinations, Sally Silberman, spokeswoman for the district, said.Liberty County Environmental Health officials remind residents to get all pets vaccinated, which is required by law.

The names of the family were not released.

Rabies is a potentially deadly virus that is primarily spread by infected animals. Residents should avoid contact with wild or stray animals, watch for unusual behavior in pets and wildlife, and get pets vaccinated against rabies. Symptoms of rabies in animals include a change in behavior, biting, aggression, showing no fear of natural enemies (such as humans), foaming at the mouth, and paralysis.

If an animal ever bites you, seek medical care immediately and contact Liberty County Animal Control at 876-9191 and the Liberty County Health Department Environmental Health Division at 912-368-5520.

There will be more in Friday's Courier.