The Livingston County Department of Health is warning the public after a raccoon that was present at Camp Lima during this past weekend’s German Festival tested positive for rabies.
Health officials announced Tuesday that the raccoon, found in the Town of Lima, was confirmed to have rabies following testing conducted on June 16. The animal had been seen on the Camp Lima property during the festival on June 14.
According to the Health Department, one person was potentially exposed to the rabies virus through contact with the raccoon and will receive post-exposure treatment to prevent infection.
Officials believe the raccoon was a nursing mother and are urging anyone who recently had direct contact with a raccoon or raccoon kit at Camp Lima or in surrounding areas to contact the Livingston County Department of Health for a rabies exposure assessment.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of mammals and is almost always fatal once symptoms develop. In Livingston County, rabies is most commonly found in raccoons, skunks, and bats, though all mammals, including unvaccinated dogs, cats, and livestock, can become infected.
Health officials noted there is no reliable way to determine whether an animal has rabies simply by observing it and advised residents to avoid all wild or feral animals.
Common signs of rabies in wildlife may include difficulty walking, disorientation, excessive drooling, unusual aggression, refusal to eat or drink, and significant changes in behavior.
The Livingston County Department of Health is asking anyone who believes they may have been exposed to rabies to report the incident immediately for evaluation and guidance.
Additional information about rabies prevention and exposure can be obtained through the Livingston County Department of Health.
