Health officials have confirmed that a racoon in the Eastanollee area of southern Stephens County tested positive for rabies this past weekend.
A release Sunday from District 2 Public Health said the raccoon was recovered from the Freeman Creek Road area just west of Eastanollee. No details were given on how the raccoon was discovered.
"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," Sunday's release said.
Officials said it's important to maintain current rabies vaccinations for pets and keep them away from wild animals. They also said people should avoid contact with unfamiliar dogs, cats or wild animals.
Officials said post-exposure rabies vaccines are available to anyone who has contact with an animal believed to be infected. They are available at all major hospitals in District 2.
Anyone in the area who sees an animal behaving strangely is asked to not approach it and contact the Department of Natural Resources ranger hotline by calling 1-800-241-4113.
