A raccoon that bit a person at Blanchard Woods Park last week has tested positive for rabies, according to a news release from Columbia County officials released on Wednesday.
The person who was bitten has already sought medical attention and has begun the recommended rabies treatment. County officials have confirmed that the person was an adult.
After the person was bitten, Columbia County Animal Services captured the raccoon and sent it for rabies testing.
Officials say that while there is no indication of a broader health concern, people are encouraged to use caution when encountering wildlife. Health officials are asking residents to make sure pets are vaccinated against rabies and to avoid
all contact with wild animals.
Residents are asked to report any contact with wild animals by people or domestic animals to the county health department or animal services officials. Columbia County Animal Services can be reached by phone at (706) 541-4077 or via email at animalservices@columbiacountyga.gov.
Health department officials recommend the following:
- Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in wooded areas.
- Do not approach a wild animal.
- If you encounter an aggressive or lethargic wild animal, contact animal services.
- Don’t let pets roam free.
- Avoid feeding animals outside. This attracts stray and wild animals.
Jennifer Miller covers food and business for The Augusta Chronicle. She can be reached at JMiller@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Rabid raccoon bites person at Blanchard Woods Park in Columbia County
