Health Alert Issued After Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies

Information via Ledge Light Health District:

PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT

RACCOON FROM NORTH STONINGTON TESTS POSITIVE FOR RABIES

A RACCOON FROM THE AREA OF 21 BABCOCK ROAD IN NORTH STONINGTON WAS TESTED AND FOUND TO BE POSITIVE FOR RABIES ON DECEMBER 16, 2021. THE PUBLIC SHOULD REFRAIN FROM FEEDING OR APPROACHING ANY WILD OR STRAY ANIMALS.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including people. It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus. The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, etc.)

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ledge Light Health District at 448-4882 or the Animal Control Officer at 860-287-2197.