Eleventh rabies case confirmed for White County in 2020

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  • A rabid raccoon in the area of Frank Black Road is the 11th confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.
    A rabid raccoon in the area of Frank Black Road is the 11th confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.
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A rabid raccoon in the area of Frank Black Road is the 11th confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.

According to White County Environmental Health Manager Sean Sullivan, on Monday, June 29, after dusk, a dog owner let the animal out to use the bathroom. The homeowner heard the dog holler and saw a raccoon attacking the dog. The dog was able to get away, but the raccoon was chasing it. The homeowner killed the raccoon and Environmental Health was notified about the incident the next day, June 30. The raccoon was sent to the Georgia Public Health Lab in Decatur. The state lab shared confirmation of a positive rabies test on Thursday, July 2. 

The dog was up to date on its rabies vaccination, so the animal will undergo a 45-day observational 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.