Cape Cod National Seashore, Eastham, MAPhoto: National Park Service
BOSTON, (WBZ NewsRadio) — A dead racoon found on Cape Cod last Sunday, November 17 has tested positive for rabies, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
The animal was reported by health officials to be positive for rabies on Wednesday, November 20.
“Anyone who may have interacted with this raccoon should immediately reach out to DPH or the Eastham Department of Health and Environment to ensure their health and safety,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine M. Brown.
Read More: Eversource Electric Rates Set To Drop This Winter In Massachusetts
According to Mass DPH, rabies is a fatal but preventable disease caused by a virus. The virus is carried in the saliva of infected animals and can be spread to people and other animals through a bite, or when saliva is introduced into an open wound or the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes and woodchucks are the animals most likely to be infected with rabies in Massachusetts.
Mass DPH has asked anyone who encountered or touched the raccoon to contact its Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800. The line is available 24/7.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok
