New Hampshire officials are warning people about the danger of rabies after a person was recently bit by a raccoon.
Officials with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department said they were notified Wednesday morning, July 2, that a person in the state had become ill after being bitten by a raccoon they kept as a pet.
Removing wildlife from its habitat for any purpose is illegal in New Hampshire.
Officials issued the warning Wednesday afternon, saying wild animals should be left alone, with one reason being the potential for the transfer of rabies or other animal diseases that could have serious health impacts on people.
“The rabies virus is most associated with raccoons, coyotes, foxes, skunks, and bats, but can infect a wide variety of mammals at any time of year,” said Andy Timmins, Wildlife Program Supervisor of Fish and Game’s Wildlife Division.
In 2017, a New York man was attacked by a deer that tests showed had rabies.
Rabies is spread from animal to animal or animal to human through saliva, generally through biting or scratching. However, rabies may also spread if the saliva of an infected animal comes into contact with mucous membranes or open wounds of another animal or human.
Officials said people should avoid contact with wild animals, especially ones that are acting strangely, such as being aggressive, docile, acting sleepy, or walking unsteadily.
Officials said residents should not encourage wildlife to hang around their homes — do not leave pet food outdoors, secure garbage can lids, and clean outdoor grills after each use.
Anyone who comes into physical contact with a wild animal that they suspect may have rabies or is ill should contact a local law enforcement professional or Fish and Game Conservation Officer.
Parents are advised to teach children to let them know if they have been scratched or bitten by a strange animal, even if it is a pet.
If you are bitten or scratched by a wild animal, contact your health care professional immediately about possible exposure treatment. Rabies can be treated if caught early.
Anyone with questions about rabies can call the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Infectious Disease Control at 603-271-4496. To read more about rabies and wild animals, visit https://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/wildlife/diseases.html.
