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A raccoon. Photo obtained via Wikimedia Commons

On Aug. 27, a raccoon was caught on Flat Shoals Road in the 1600 block and it tested positive for rabies.

In 2018, DeKalb County has identified 10 cases of rabies in raccoons. Cases have been reported in Dunwoody, Decatur, Tucker, Stone Mountain, Avondale Estates, and Lithonia, according to a recent press release.

However, this is not abnormal for the state of Georgia – it is typical for there to be a rabies epidemic that lasts throughout the year. Rabies is most commonly passed among animals, but can be transmitted to people that don’t have a rabies vaccination.

DeKalb County outlined some recommendations for residents in a recent press release:

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– Residents should make sure pets are up to date for preventative vaccination and should eliminate outdoor feeding stations and access to garbage cans.

– Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by an animal should seek medical attention immediately.

– Residents are advised to watch pets and contact DeKalb County Animal Control if unusual behavior occurs.

– Residents are responsible for vaccinating pets every year and registering the tag with DeKalb County Animal Control.

If you’re looking for more information or would like to report an animal bite, call the DeKalb County Animal Control at (404)294-2996, and choose Option 2 from the menu.

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