Two positive cases of rabies have been reported in North Georgia, according to District 2 Public Health.
The first was found on Jan. 8 in a raccoon in Franklin County that tested positive after the animal is believed to have exposed a canine to the virus.
A second case was reported on Jan. 13 in Dawson County, where a raccoon tested positive and exposed two dogs and their owner to the virus.
Although preventable, rabies is a serious and potentially fatal virus that primarily affects wild mammals such as raccoons, skunks, bats and foxes in Georgia. The virus can also spread to other animals like pets, livestock and humans through bites, scratches or contact with the saliva of an infected animal.
Once contracted, rabies can travel to the brain and cause inflammation that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Rabies is treatable if immediate medical attention is sought after exposure.
Public health officials urge North Georgians to take precautions to prevent rabies such as vaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals and seeking immediate medical care if bitten or scratched by an animal.
