Rabid Raccoon Bites Dog in Gwinnett: Public Warned

Gwinnett County officials are urging residents to exercise caution following a confirmed rabies case in a raccoon. The animal attacked a dog on May 26 near Biltmore Oaks Drive in the Bethlehem area. Subsequent testing confirmed the raccoon was infected with the potentially fatal rabies virus. This disease can be transmitted through bites and scratches, and is almost always fatal in humans once symptoms appear. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, muscle aches, and general discomfort. Pet owners are advised to keep vaccinations current. Georgia is a rabies-endemic state, meaning the virus circulates in wildlife year-round. Residents should also be vigilant about avoiding animals that appear to be behaving unusually. A similar incident occurred earlier in May in DeKalb County where a raccoon also tested positive for rabies.