Hall County Animal Services has reported the first confirmed case of rabies in the county for 2018.
A rabid raccoon and two dogs had contact on Etta Vista Road in Gainesville, according to a statement released by the county. The raccoon was shipped to the Georgia Public Health Lab- Virology Section in Decatur and tested positive for the disease.
Positive alert signs have been posted in the area where the rabid raccoon was located. County officials ask residents in the area who see an animal acting abnormally in the area to contact Hall County Animal Services at 770-531-6830. After regular business hours, residents may call Hall County Dispatch at 770-536-8812.
Animal owners are encouraged to vaccinate their domesticated pets for rabies. Vaccines are available at the Hall County Animal Shelter for $10 Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 1688 Barber Rd, Gainesville.
