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Person bitten by rabid raccoon in Cumberland County

A rabid raccoon bit a person in Fayetteville on Sept. 19. while trying to move it from the road, officials said.

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Raccoon stock photo from Pexels
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — A rabid raccoon bit a person in Fayetteville on Sept. 19 after they tried to move the animal from the road, officials said.

The raccoon was found at Odom Drive and Coventry Road near Ireland Drive.

Cumberland County Animal Services was called and sent the raccoon off to a lab for testing. This raccoon had the second confirmed case of rabies in Cumberland County this year.

County officials say residents need to be on the look out for changes in animal behavior. Animals that are overly-aggressive and attack for no reason could have rabies.

  • Rabid animals may walk in a circle, drag a leg, or fall over
  • Some animals may not be able to swallow and are not able to eat or drink

Cumberland County Animal Services reminded pet owners to check the vaccination status of their pet.

"Make an appointment with a veterinarian immediately if pets are not vaccinated for rabies or need a booster shot," said Elaine Smith, director of Cumberland County Animal Services.

State law requires that all dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies. If not, owners will face a $100 fine for each pet.

Officials say residents should avoid all wild animals. But if someone is scratched or bitten by an animal, they should:

  • Immediately wash the wound under running water for at least 10 minutes with lots of soap.
  • Go directly to the emergency room.

Cumberland County Animal Services is open from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If residents have questions, they are encouraged to call 910-321-6852.

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