Raccoons and Rabies: What You Need to Know

Raccoons are one of the most common wild animals found in North America. They are also known to carry rabies, a virus that can be deadly to humans and other animals. Knowing the facts about raccoons and rabies can help you protect yourself and your family from this dangerous disease.

Rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite or scratch. Once the virus enters the body, it can cause severe symptoms such as fever, headache, confusion, and paralysis. If left untreated, rabies can be fatal.

Raccoons are one of the most common carriers of rabies in North America. The virus is most commonly spread through the saliva of an infected raccoon, usually through a bite or scratch. It is also possible for humans to contract rabies from contact with an infected raccoon’s saliva, even if there is no direct contact.

How to Protect Yourself from Rabies

The best way to protect yourself and your family from rabies is to avoid contact with wild animals, especially raccoons. If you do come into contact with a raccoon, it is important to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.

It is also important to make sure that your pets are vaccinated against rabies. This will help protect them from the virus and reduce the risk of them passing it on to you or your family.

Pro Tip

If you find a raccoon in your yard or home, it is important to call animal control or a wildlife expert to safely remove it. Do not attempt to handle the animal yourself, as this could put you at risk of contracting rabies.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can humans get rabies from raccoons?
• Yes, humans can contract rabies from contact with an infected raccoon’s saliva, even if there is no direct contact.
• How can I protect myself from rabies?
• The best way to protect yourself and your family from rabies is to avoid contact with wild animals, especially raccoons. If you do come into contact with a raccoon, it is important to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
• Do I need to vaccinate my pets against rabies?
• Yes, it is important to make sure that your pets are vaccinated against rabies. This will help protect them from the virus and reduce the risk of them passing it on to you or your family.

Rabies is a serious and potentially deadly virus, and it is important to take steps to protect yourself and your family from it. Knowing the facts about raccoons and rabies can help you stay safe and healthy. If you come into contact with a raccoon, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and take steps to protect yourself and your family from the virus.