A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Graves Park, 1540 Graves Road in Norcross. According to the CDC, the rabies virus attacks the central nervous system and is almost always fatal if untreated.
Early symptoms of rabies in people include fever, headache and general weakness or discomfort. If bitten or scratched by an animal that is suspected to have rabies, immediately seek medical care and contact the Gwinnett County Health Department at 770-339-4260.
Anyone bitten or scratched by stray animals should be captured and tested. Call the Gwinnett County Animal Welfare Bite Office at 770-339-3200 ext. 5576, or after hours, contact Dispatch non-emergency at 770-513-5700.
Rabid animals may act tame. They may also display strange or unusual behavior. They may act aggressive, avoid food and water, foam at the mouth, or have trouble moving or move in a stiff, odd way. Report any animal acting unusual to Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement at 770-513-5700.
In conjunction with World Rabies Day, Gwinnett Animal Welfare is partnering with Animal Alliance of Georgia, Canine Pet Rescue, Society of Humane Friends of Georgia and Live Healthy Gwinnett to offer free rabies vaccinations 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 29 at Pinckneyville Park, 4758 S. Old Peachtree Road in Peachtree Corners.
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