Los Angeles County reports first raccoon rabies case in over 50 years

Health officials in Los Angeles County have reported a raccoon infected with rabies in Westlake Village, marking what could be the first such case in the area in over 50 years. The last confirmed rabid raccoon in the county was recorded in 1973.

The infected animal was found in a residential backyard but did not exhibit aggressive behavior toward humans. Four individuals working at a nearby construction site and a vaccinated dog were identified as potential exposure cases. The individuals are currently receiving post-exposure prophylaxis, including vaccines and immunoglobulin, in accordance with CDC guidelines.

This incident occurs amid a broader trend of rising rabies cases in the United States, with the CDC reporting a 17 percent nationwide increase this summer. While bats and skunks are frequent carriers in California, officials are investigating the specific strain of the virus found in this raccoon. Public health authorities are urging residents to maintain distance from all wildlife and ensure pets are up to date on vaccinations.