Rabid raccoon found in Lawrenceville
A raccoon in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville has tested positive for rabies, Allegheny County health officials said Thursday.
It’s the 12th rabid animal reported in the county so far this year, most of which have been raccoons, officials said. Two bats and one cat have also tested positive for the virus.
The last rabid animal, also a raccoon, was reported in early May in Scott.
The latest raccoon was found on Hatfield Street in Central Lawrenceville, according to a release from the health department.
Health officials reminded residents to avoid stray and wild animals and to report animals acting strange or threatening to animal control services. Pets should be up to day on their vaccinations.
The virus, which is fatal if left untreated, comes from a scratch or bite from an infected animal, officials said. Anyone bitten or scratched by a stray or wile animal should wash the area and seek medical attention.
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