Raccoon With Rabies Located in Lubbock County

The first rabies case since October of 2017 has been reported in Lubbock County.

A raccoon was found and caught in eastern Lubbock County and was tested positive for rabies.

Rabies can be transmitted to humans through an infected animal's saliva. It can be prevented but only before symptoms appear. Anyone who comes into contact with a rabid animal should seek immediate medical attention.

The City of Lubbock reminds citizens to avoid contact with wild animals and have pets vaccinated against rabies as required by law.

Residents are advised to take the following precautions:

• Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.
• Keep your pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.
• Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals with open garbage cans or litter.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
• Report the bite to Lubbock Animal Services at 806-775-2057 or 806-775-3357 so the animal may be placed in rabies observation or submitted for rabies testing.