A rabid raccoon has been discovered on Washington Street in La Grange.

The Lenoir County Health Department (LCHD) received confirmation from the North Carolina State Laboratory that a raccoon has tested positive for rabies. The animal was located in the area of La Grange. This is the first animal identified as rabid in the county this year.

“Anytime we identify a rabid animal, we want to remind people to be careful for themselves, to avoid contact with wild animals, and to ensure pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations.” LCHD Director Pamela Brown said.

To keep yourself, your family and your pets safe, please follow these guidelines:

§  Let the health department, the hospital or your doctor know if you have been scratched or bitten by or have handled an animal that could be rabid

§  Do not approach or touch a wild animal or an animal that could be rabid

§  Ensure pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations

§  Keep pets away from stray or wild animals

For questions or concerns about rabies or for information about vaccinating pets for rabies, please call the LCHD at 252-526-4200.