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Raccoon tests positive for rabies in DeKalb County

Health officials urged pet owners to keep rabies vaccinations current for all their pets, and to keep them under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals.
Health officials urged pet owners to keep rabies vaccinations current for all their pets, and to keep them under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals.
By Amanda C. Coyne
March 21, 2018

A raccoon in DeKalb County has tested positive for rabies.

PREVIOUSLY | Rabid raccoon enters DeKalb home through doggy door, bites two dogs

The animal was captured March 19 in the 1600 block of Drayton Woods Drive in Tucker. This is the second time a rabid raccoon has been found in DeKalb County in three weeks. On Feb. 28, a rabid raccoon entered a home through a doggy door and bit two dogs.

Rabies can be spread from animal to animal or animal to human via saliva, scratches and bites. It is a disease that affects the brain, and animals who are infected often must be euthanized.

If you or a pet are bitten or scratched by an unfamiliar animal, seek medical attention immediately. For more information, contact DeKalb County Animal Services at 404-294-2996, option 2.

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A busy highway in DeKalb County is back open after horses were seen running along it.

About the Author

Amanda Coyne is a hyperlocal reporter for the AJC, covering Gwinnett County.

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