Community Corner

Waterford Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies

Health district officials have issued a warning after a raccoon tested positive for rabies.

WATERFORD, CT — A raccoon from the area of Longview Avenue in Waterford has tested positive for rabies, according to a statement from the Ledge Light Health District. Officials said 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," a health district 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 any questions or concerns, contact Ledge Light Health District at 860-448-4882 or
Waterford Animal Control at 860-442-9451.

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