Rabid raccoon found near Columbia Drive in DeKalb

A raccoon captured in the Avondale Estates area this past Saturday has tested positive for rabies, officials announced Friday.

The animal was caught in the 1100 block of North Carter Road. It’s the 12th rabid raccoon incident this year, with the others being in areas including Dunwoody, Decatur, Tucker, Stone Mountain, Avondale Estates and Lithonia.

Rabies cases are common in Georgia.

The virus is spread through saliva, usually from a bite. Vaccinations are effective in protecting humans and pets. In DeKalb, residents are responsible for vaccinating pets every year and registering the tag with Animal Control.

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For more information or to report an animal bite, contact DeKalb County Animal Control at 404-294-2996 and select option 2 from the menu.

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