Home / Health / Rabies Alert: Raccoon Tests Positive in DeKalb County
Rabies Alert: Raccoon Tests Positive in DeKalb County
6 May
Summary
- A raccoon tested positive for rabies in the Lithonia area.
- Georgia is a rabies-endemic state, requiring pet vaccinations.
- Rabies is nearly always fatal in humans once symptoms appear.
DeKalb County officials are alerting Lithonia-area residents to a confirmed rabies case. A raccoon was identified as testing positive for the rabies virus on Sunday.
Georgia is recognized as a rabies-endemic state, meaning the virus is present in wildlife throughout the year. Health authorities emphasize the critical importance of keeping pets up-to-date with their vaccinations. The disease, which can spread through animal bites and scratches, poses a severe threat to human health, being almost invariably fatal once symptoms emerge.
Symptoms of rabies can include muscle aches, fever, vomiting, and general discomfort. The National Association of State Health Veterinarians recommends that unvaccinated dogs and cats exposed to a rabid animal be quarantined for four months. They must also be vaccinated one month prior to their release.
Residents are advised to closely observe their pets for any unusual activity. If an individual has been bitten or scratched by an animal, they should seek medical attention immediately. For reporting animal bites or seeking further information, DeKalb County Animal Control can be reached on weekdays at (404) 294-2996 or after hours at (404) 294-2519.
