Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Town Of Groton: Health District

GROTON, CT — A raccoon found on Whitney Road in the Town of Groton side of Mystic tested positive for rabies Friday, according to a statement from the Ledge Light Health District. The district warned that the public should "refrain from feeding or approaching any wild or stray animals."

"Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including people," the statement reads. "It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus. The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, etc.). "

If you have questions or concerns, contact the Health District at 860-448-4882 or Town of Groton Animal Control at 860-441-6709.