Rabid fox, raccoon attacks reported in Columbia County
MARTINEZ, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The Columbia County Health Department Environmental Health Section is reporting attacks with a rabid fox and rabid raccoon in Columbia County.
Two people were attacked by a rabid fox near Cheryl Ann Drive and Gordon Highway in Grovetown on July 1.
The fox was killed by a property owner and collected by Columbia County Animal Services, according to officials.
Test results confirmed the fox was positive for rabies. Officials say the victims are receiving post-exposure rabies treatments.
On June 29, a raccoon encountered pet dogs near Old Anderson Road in Martinez.
Results received by Columbia County Environmental Health confirmed the raccoon was positive for rabies. According to the news release, the dogs were up to date with their rabies vaccinations.
The Columbia County Health Department Environmental Health Section recommends the following:
- Make sure your dogs and cats are currently vaccinated against rabies.
- Do not let your pets roam free. They are more likely to have with a rabid wild animal.
- Avoid feeding your animals outside. This draws stray and wild animals to your doorstep.
- Teach your children not to approach wild animals and animals they don’t know.
In addition, report any of humans and domestic animals with wild animals to Columbia County Health Department Environmental Health Section office at 706-868-3330 or Columbia County Animal Services at 706-541-4077.
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