Rabid Raccoon Turns Up In Providence

PROVIDENCE, RI — A rabid raccoon turned up in Providence.

The raccoon was found in the area of Amy Street in the Fox Point neighborhood, the Rhode Island Department of Health said in a media release.

"A second raccoon that was collected near Hope Street in this area is also being tested because of indications that it may also be rabid," the release said.

"There were no human exposures to either of these animals," according to the release. "RIDOH is alerting the public out of an abundance of caution as the rabid animal was found in a densely populated area."

Rabies is a deadly disease if it is not treated before the onset of symptoms, according to the release.

"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 and before symptoms appear."

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