EthiopiaRabid Raccoon Found in LA
Four people and a dog may have been exposed to rabies from the animal, Los Angeles public health officials say. The county has not had a documented case of a rabid raccoon since 1973.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Los Angeles County health officials are investigating the county's first suspected rabid raccoon case since 1973. A sick raccoon was found in a backyard in the Westlake Village area, and four people and a dog may have been exposed to rabies.
The raccoon appeared ill but was not aggressive towards people. The dog that was exposed to the raccoon had updated vaccines and is under quarantine, doing well.
Rabies is spread through a bite or scratch from an infected animal and is almost completely fatal once symptoms appear. The US sees fewer than 10 deaths annually due to strong prevention efforts.
Health officials in Los Angeles County are urging residents to keep a safe distance from wildlife and contact local animal control if they encounter an animal that appears sick, injured, or is behaving unusually.
The county has seen a record number of rabid bats this year, with 69 documented cases. The last known animal, aside from bats, to have rabies was a skunk in 2014.
The variant of rabies that affected the raccoon is unknown, and officials believe it was probably rabies from a bat. The investigation is ongoing, and the people who were possibly exposed to rabies are receiving follow-up care.
Key facts
- First suspected rabid raccoon case in LA County since 1973
- Four people and a dog may have been exposed to rabies
- The raccoon appeared ill but was not aggressive
- The county has seen a record number of rabid bats this year
Three perspectives
Neutral
The discovery of a rabid raccoon in LA County is a reminder to residents to be cautious around wild animals. The investigation is ongoing, and health officials are monitoring the situation.
Positive
The prompt response from health officials and the fact that the exposed dog had updated vaccines are positive signs. The investigation will help determine the source of the rabies and prevent future cases.
Negative
The appearance of a rabid raccoon in LA County is a concern, and the fact that four people and a dog may have been exposed to rabies is alarming. The record number of rabid bats in the county this year is also a worry.
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