Public Safety
LA County confirms first rabid raccoon since 1973
A raccoon found sick in a Westlake Village backyard tested positive for rabies, prompting a county investigation and follow-up for possible human and pet exposure.
Los Angeles County public-health officials confirmed the county's first rabid raccoon in more than 50 years on October 5. The animal was found in the backyard of a Westlake Village home and appeared ill but was not acting aggressively, according to the Department of Public Health.
Location: Westlake Village
Historical context: First confirmed rabid raccoon in Los Angeles County since 1973
Investigation: The viral variant is still being identified
Exposure follow-up underway
Four people who may have been exposed were receiving follow-up for rabies post-exposure treatment, CBS Los Angeles reported. One dog was also exposed, but officials said the vaccinated animal was quarantined and doing well.
The county said variant testing could take several weeks. Based on the local pattern of rabies detections, officials said a bat was the likely source, but that determination has not been confirmed.
County safety guidance
Public-health officials reminded residents not to touch, handle or feed wild animals, to keep pets' rabies vaccinations current and to maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Rabies can spread through bites, scratches or infected saliva contacting an open wound or the eyes, nose or mouth.
Official release: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health →
Original report: CBS Los Angeles →