RUTLAND CITY — The Health Department has confirmed a case of rabies in a racoon in Rutland City, urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their animals.
Officials recommend that anyone bitten by an animal should immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek advice from a healthcare provider.
Pet owners, particularly those with dogs, cats, and barn cats, are reminded that state law requires rabies vaccinations for these animals.
The public is advised to avoid contact with wild or stray animals, especially those exhibiting unusual behavior.
The Rabies Hotline at 1-800-4-RABIES is available for reporting potential cases of rabies or contacting the local Animal Control Officer for concerns about rabies exposure.
The Health Department emphasizes that young wildlife should not be touched or picked up, as this can lead to orphaning or the need for humane euthanasia if tested for rabies.
For further information about rabies and safety measures, residents are encouraged to visit the Vermont Department of Health’s website.
Rabies, a fatal viral brain disease that affects mammals, is most often found in wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats, and woodchucks in Vermont.
The virus is transmitted through bites or scratches from an infected animal or when the virus enters open wounds or mucous membranes.
