Rabid raccoon reported in Monroe County
PETERSTOWN, WV (WVNS) — Another rabid animal was reported in Monroe County.
According to the Monroe County Health Department, a raccoon in the Peterstown area of Monroe County tested positive for rabies. They advised the public to keep their pets vaccinated, make sure that children are taught to not get near wild animals. They also reminded residents not to feed wild or stray animals while keep any pet food indoors.
Otter positive for rabies found in Monroe County
The raccoon is the third positive rabies case found in Monroe County in one month. As of January 25, 2024, a rabid cat, otter, and raccoon have all tested positive for rabies in Monroe County, according to the Monroe County Health Department. The Greenbrier County Health Department also confirmed a case of rabies in a cat earlier in January 2024 in Greenbrier County.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system of mammals, and can most often be found in raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats, although it can be seen in other animals. Rabies spreads through bites or scratches from infected animals, and while it is difficult to know for sure if an animal has rabies without testing, there are symptoms to look out for.
Animals with rabies tend to act oddly, with symptoms such as aggression and attempts to bite, or excessive drooling. However, not all animals will always show these symptoms, as they can also move slower than normal, act timid, shy, or tamer than usual, or let humans get abnormally close to them. Other symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, and difficulty moving.
Monroe County cat tested positive for rabies
Once symptoms of rabies appear, it is almost always fatal. Early symptoms of rabies in humans are similar to the flu, with fever, headache, and weakness or discomfort, and itchiness around the bite is possible. Later symptoms can include agitation, anxiety, confusion, delirium, and more. Anyone who comes into contact with an animal, especially if they have been scratched or bitten, should wash the area with soap and water and seek immediate medical care.
The Monroe County Health Department also recommended to never directly handle sick or dead animals, and to use gloves and a shovel or pitchfork to move any remains. They also advise to not approach injured or sick animals, and to call the 911 non-emergency line at 304-772-3912.
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