Rabid Raccoon Bites Resident

From city Communications Director Av Harris:

The Bridgeport Department of Health is reporting that a raccoon that recently bit a city resident on Summerfield Avenue has tested positive for rabies. The incident occurred on January 30, 2016, and Bridgeport Animal Control was called to the home where the resident was bitten. The animal was euthanized, and Animal Control took the raccoon’s body to the Connecticut Department of Public Health Laboratory in Rocky Hill for testing. Tests on the animal confirmed a positive diagnosis for rabies, and the bite victim was notified and treated with rabies vaccine.

The Bridgeport Health Department is reminding residents to stay clear of wildlife and leave stray animals alone. If unsure of the condition of a wild animal, residents and the public are asked to notify Animal Control or the Bridgeport Police Department. Many Raccoons tend to be nocturnal; raccoons appearing during the day may be infected with rabies.

Bridgeport Animal Control is reachable by phone at 203-576-3933, online by clicking here and through Facebook:
www.facebook.com/Bridgeport-Connecticut-Animal-Control-107558032600206/

The Bridgeport Police Department non-emergency phone number is 203-581-5100 or in case of emergency residents can always call 911.

The Rabies virus is carried by mammals and affects the brain and central nervous system; it is nearly always fatal. It can be spread through animal bites, but not all animal contact. Signs of the disease can present as flu-like symptoms before progressing to more serious psychiatric impacts. Anyone who suspects they have come into contact with a rabid animal should immediately be evaluated by a physician. Rabies vaccination and prophylactic treatment immediately following exposure are effective measures to prevent the spread of the disease.