Hall County's first rabies case of the year confirmed in the East Hall area

Hall County has confirmed the county's first rabies case of the year.

A dog and a rabid raccoon had contact on Old Cornelia Highway in the East Hall area, according to information released Friday by Hall County Animal Control officials. Confirmation of the positive test came Thursday from the Georgia Public Health Lab-Virology Section in Decatur. 

Positive alert signs will be posted in the area where the rabid raccoon was located. Anyone who lives in the area and sees an animal acting abnormally in the area should contact Hall County Animal Services at 770-531-6830 or during non-working hours 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, located at 1688 Barber Road in Gainesville, for $10, though appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, call 678-450-1587.