Seventh rabies cases confirmed in White County for 2020

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  • A rabid raccoon found in the area of Barret Mill Road is the seventh confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.
    A rabid raccoon found in the area of Barret Mill Road is the seventh confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.
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A rabid raccoon found in the area of Barrett Mill Road is the seventh confirmed rabies case in White County for 2020.

According to White County Environmental Health Manager Sean Sullivan, on Thursday, April 9, the homeowner arrived home and saw her dogs chasing the raccoon across the yard before attacking and injuring it. The homeowner called off the dogs and dispatched the animal. The homeowner then contact the Department of Natural Resources, who contacted Sullivan. The raccoon was sent to the Georgia Public Health Lab in Decatur. The state lab shared confirmation of a positive rabies test on Wednesday, April 15. 

The dogs have a history of rabies vaccinations, 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.