Another rabies case reported in DeKalb County

The DeKalb County Animal Control caught the third rabid racoon in the past 30 days.

The DeKalb County Animal Control caught the third rabid racoon in the past 30 days.

A raccoon was captured in the 1600 block of Drayton Woods Drive on March 19 and later tested positive for rabies, according to a press release.

This makes the third case reported in DeKalb in the past 30 days.

On Feb. 23, a raccoon was captured in the 3200 block of Covington Highway and later tested positive for rabies. A raccoon that tested positive for rabies was also captured on March 3 in the 3900 block of Garfield Drive in Stone Mountain, according to DeKalb County Animal Control.

Rabies is a disease that affects the brain. It’s usually passed from animal to animal but can be passed from animals to people. The virus is spread through saliva, usually from a bite of an animal that has the disease.

Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a wild animal should seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, residents are advised to watch pets and contact DeKalb County Animal Control if unusual behavior occurs. Rabies can be prevented by a vaccine. Residents are responsible for vaccinating pets every year and registering the tag with DeKalb County Animal Control.

Information: DeKalb County Animal Control at 404-294-2996.