Rabid raccoon attacks prompt advisory from state

Daniel Kittredge
Posted 5/1/14

State officials have issued an advisory after two people in Providence were attacked this week by a raccoon that has tested positive for rabies.

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Rabid raccoon attacks prompt advisory from state

Posted

State officials have issued an advisory after two people in Providence were attacked this week by a raccoon that has tested positive for rabies.

The incident occurred on April 30 in the area of Princeton Avenue and Burnett Street, the Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Health announced. Both parties involved have started vaccine treatment for rabies.

A third incident, in which a person was attacked by a raccoon, took place April 29 in the area of Grant Street. Given that the incidents occurred within a mile of each other, officials say it is believe the same raccoon was involved in both attacks.

Officials are urging anyone who may have had contact with a raccoon prior to April 30 to contact the health department for evaluation and potential treatment. Scott Marshall, the state’s veterinarian, said this case of rabies carries a high risk because the raccoon appears to have roamed neighborhoods, coming into contact with pets and people who may not be aware of the potential exposure.

The health department may be contacted at 401-222-2577 on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., or at 401-272-5952 after hours.

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