GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. – The Glynn County Health Department is urging St. Simons Island residents to remain cautious after a raccoon tested positive for rabies.
The incident occurred on Nov. 20 when the raccoon attacked a feral cat near Frederica Road and Harrington Road. Thankfully, no humans were exposed.
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Rabies, a deadly virus that spreads primarily through infected animals, is a persistent risk in coastal Georgia. Common carriers include raccoons, foxes, and bats.
The health department is reminding residents to avoid contact with wild animals and avoid attempting to domesticate feral cats. Also, pet owners are advised to ensure their animals are up to date on rabies vaccinations.
The department released guidelines to help residents protect themselves and their families:
- Avoid contact with animals you don’t know.
- Ensure pets receive proper rabies vaccinations. Dogs and cats should receive their first vaccine after 12 weeks of age, a booster shot within a year, and subsequent vaccinations every one to three years as recommended by a veterinarian.
- Don’t handle or feed wild animals, and avoid leaving pet food outside at night. Secure garbage bins to prevent attracting wildlife.
- Refrain from adopting or bringing wild animals into your home, and never attempt to nurse a sick animal. Contact animal control or a licensed rescue agency instead.
- Teach children to avoid handling unfamiliar animals, even if they appear friendly. A good rule of thumb is “love your own, leave other animals alone.”
Symptoms of rabies in animals include unusual behavior, biting, aggression, loss of fear of humans, foaming at the mouth, and paralysis.
If bitten by an animal, residents should seek medical care immediately and report the incident to Glynn County Animal Control at 912-554-7500 and the Glynn County Health Department Environmental Health office at 912-279-2940.