A raccoon found alive roadside along Castleberry Road in the City of Cumming, near the city fairgrounds, has tested positive for Rabies following capture on March 2.

“Upon discovering the injured animal roadside on Sunday, a resident attempted to crate the raccoon,” said Forsyth County Animal Services Manager Haley Brown. “The racoon bit the individual during the process and was subsequently tested and confirmed positive for Rabies after testing at the State Lab.”

All known individuals who came into contact with the animal were referred to their healthcare provider and subsequently treated for any exposure.

“Encounters between wild animals and domestic pets, including some that involved people, have increased recently, so we encourage all residents to have their pets vaccinated against the Rabies Virus and be educated on what to do if they encounter a potentially rabid animal,” said Brown. “It is highly discouraged for anyone to attempt handling a wild animal without professional guidance. We ask that anyone encountering a similar situation with a wild animal to contact the Forsyth County Animal Services team as Rabies can be life-threatening if not treated.”

Public health officials will notify any additional known individuals exposed to the animal and will inform them of the need to seek medical care if necessary.

To report a wild, or domesticated, animal acting strangely, avoid the animal and contact Forsyth County Animal Services at (770) 781-2138. If it is after business hours, contact the Forsyth County 911 Center after-hours line at (770) 781-3087. To report an animal bite, immediately call the Georgia Poison Control Center helpline at 1 (800) 222-1222 for medical instructions.

The Rabies Virus can be transmitted to domestic animals and humans only when the virus is introduced into bite wounds, open cuts in the skin, or onto mucous membranes, such as the eyes or mouth.

Rabies is a viral infection transmitted in the saliva of infected mammals and enters the central nervous system of the host, causing an inflammation of the brain that is almost always fatal. Wildlife remains the most likely potential source of infection for both humans and domestic animals in the United States since the most common carriers of Rabies are raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes and bats. For more information pertaining to the Rabies Virus, visit Forsyth County Animal Services online.

Georgia Rabies Control Law-O.C.G.A. 13-19 mandates that every cat and dog be vaccinated for Rabies by a licensed veterinarian to protect them and prevent spread of the disease. For more about Rabies Virus vaccinations for pets, ask your veterinarian or visit the Department of Public Health (DPH) online.

Public health officials will notify any individuals who have been exposed to risks and will inform them of the need to seek medical care if necessary.