Eighth rabies case confirmed for White County

Image
  • A rabid raccoon found in the area of Holiness Campground Road is the eighth confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.
    A rabid raccoon found in the area of Holiness Campground Road is the eighth confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.
Body

A rabid raccoon found in the area of Holiness Campground Road is the eighth confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.

According to White County Environmental Health Manager Sean Sullivan, on Monday, May 11, a dog owner saw her dog chasing a raccoon around the yard before catching it and killing it. The owner called to report it, and the raccoon was sent to the Georgia Public Health Lab in Decatur. The state lab shared confirmation of a positive rabies test on Wednesday, May 13

"The dog was a stray that had taken up residence for about a month, had been named, and was being fed by the owner," Sullivan said. "With no evidence of current or previous rabies vaccination, the dog must undergo a strict four month quarantine." 

Positive alert signs have been posted in the area where the rabid raccoon was located. Those who live in this area and have concerns of rabid animal exposure should contact White County Environmental Health at 706-348-7698 during normal business hours.

Animal owners are encouraged to vaccinate their domesticated pets for rabies. Please call a local veterinarian for an appointment.