Raccoon delivered to Auburn Petco for nail trim exams destructive for rabies
The raccoon that was introduced into the Auburn Petco on Tuesday has examined destructive for rabies.
The animal was introduced into the Petco at round 1:30 p.m., the place various folks touched, and even kissed, the animal. The Maine Division of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife suggested anybody who had come into contact with the animal to hunt medical recommendation.
In an effort to take a look at an animal for rabies, it have to be euthanized to be able to take mind tissue samples.
Raccoons are a typical vector of rabies, and MDIF&W officers advise anybody who comes into contact with a wild animal to contact their private well being care supplier.
Earlier this yr, a Bowdoinham girl was attacked inside her residence after a rabid raccoon got here into her solar room via a pet door. She was bitten on the leg and needed to endure therapy after the animal examined constructive for rabies.
No less than a dozen raccoons examined constructive for rabies after coming into contact with people in 2022. The state had an estimated inhabitants of greater than 120,000 of the animals from Kittery to Fort Kent when a rely was carried out in 1996.
A rabid raccoon, or different wild animal, will usually be aggressive, although some will be subdued. It’s sometimes finest follow to keep away from any animal that’s performing unusually, and name for help if wanted.
Animals get and unfold rabies via bites and scratches and the saliva from an contaminated animal is available in contact with mucus membranes just like the eyes or open wounds, even tiny ones.
