Los Angeles county records first rabid raccoon case in over half a century

Public health warning issued to residents

The department of public health stated that four people and one dog might have come into contact with the sick animal. Officials say the raccoon looked ill but did not act aggressively during its appearance. Rabies is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected creatures and remains almost always fatal once symptoms start.

Exposed individuals receive medical treatment

Health workers told the group of possibly exposed people to get follow-up care involving a series of vaccines. The dog involved in the incident is currently under quarantine while remaining up to date on its rabies shot. Local authorities urge everyone to keep a safe distance from wildlife and call animal control for sick animals.