Rabid Raccoon Confirmed in Stephens County

District II Public Health confirms a raccoon caught in Eastanollee over the weekend has tested positive for rabies.

The raccoon was found in the area of Freeman Creek Road last weekend.

According to Bobby Ward, District 2 Public Health spokesman, one dog had exposure to the raccoon and a member of the public contacted the Stephen’s County Environmental Health Manager who assisted with the testing of the Raccoon.

Ward reminds everyone that encounters between wild animals and domestic pets, including some that involve people, sometimes occur in our area.

Incidents of exposure are common but can be prevented if residents take precautions to protect themselves and their pets.

Maintaining current rabies vaccinations for your pets and keeping them away from wild animals is the best way to protect them.

To protect yourself and your family, always avoid contact with unfamiliar dogs, cats, and wild animals.

This includes feeding or attempting to help an animal that appears injured. If you feed your pets outside, pick up any uneaten food so wild animals, including feral cats, will not be attracted to your property.

Feral cats are born in the wild and should be treated as wild animals.

Rabies in humans can be prevented by eliminating exposures to rabid animals or by providing exposed persons with prompt medical treatment.

Post-exposure vaccines can be found at all the major hospitals within District 2 and information about vaccine assistance programs can be obtained from your local Environmental Health Office.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has rigid regulations that prohibit the keeping of wild animals.

If you see a wild animal acting strangely, avoid the animal and contact the DNR Ranger Hotline at: 1-800-241-4113.