Rabies found in raccoon from Forest Avenue area in Columbus, health officials say
A raccoon found in the area of Forest Avenue in Columbus tested positive for rabies at the state laboratory Wednesday, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
Health authorities are asking residents who have come into contact with a raccoon to contact the Columbus Environmental Health Office (706-321-6170) or Columbus Animal Care & Control Center (706-653-4512).
The state health department offered the following advice related to rabid animals:
- Do not pick up or handle any stray or wild animals
- Report any animal bites and/or scratches to Columbus Animal Care & Control Center and the Columbus Environmental Health Office
- Contact Columbus Animal Care & Control Center to report any animals which are behaving strangely or aggressively
- If your pet or livestock is behaving strangely or is injured, contact your local veterinarian immediately
- Teach children about the dangers of stray and wild animals
- Have all your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies
If you are bitten or scratched by any animal:
- Wash and rinse the wound thoroughly for several minutes
- Apply a disinfectant
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the bite/scratch to Columbus Animal Care & Control Center or the Columbus Environmental Health Office
This story was originally published April 13, 2023 at 3:12 PM.