6 Rabid Animals Found In Providence County

Six rabid animals were found in Providence County in the last six weeks, the Rhode Island Department of Health revealed.

There may even be a seventh rabid animal, as test results on an additional raccoon remain pending.

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So far, three rabid raccoons turned up in Burrillville, a bat and a coyote tested positive in Lincoln and a fourth raccoon was found in Providence, according to the department of health.

"Rabies vector species include bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes, groundhogs, and beavers," the department said in a media release.

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"The rabies virus infects the central nervous system," the release said. "If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies treatment must be started as soon as possible after exposure. People should not wait for symptoms to appear.

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The department warned not to make contact with an animal that is acting erratically, and to instead notify your local animal control officer.

"Anyone who has physical contact with a wild animal or awakens to a bat in their home should immediately call RIDOH's Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology at 401-222-2577 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or 401-276-8046 after hours," the release said.

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"If you are bitten or scratched, immediately wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention," according to police. "If a pet has an encounter with a wild animal, contact your city or town's animal control officer and RIDOH."

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