6th rabies case confirmed in Hall County this year

HALL COUNTY, Ga. - The sixth case of rabies in Hall County this year was confirmed on Monday, this time in the Clermont area.

Test results for a raccoon came back positive from the Georgia Public Health Laboratory. That raccoon recently had contact with a dog in the 6700 block of Holly Springs Road. Hall County Animal Control will be posting signs in the area.

Rabies, which causes encephalopathy, is easily preventable. Its symptoms include fever, headache, insomnia, confusion, hallucinations, a slight or partial paralysis, hypersalivation, and/or difficulty swallowing. Ultimately, the virus can be fatal.

The good news is it is treatable and preventable. For more information visit Hall County Animal Shelter, the Georgia Division of Public Health at www.dph.georgia.gov/rabies or the CDC at cdc.gov/rabies.

Anyone who sees animals in the area acting out of the ordinary should call Hall County Animal Services at 770-531-6830 or Hall County Dispatch at 770-536-8812 after hours.

Pet owners are encouraged to ensure their furry friends are up-to-date on their shots. Vaccines are available at the Hall County Animal Shelter located at 1688 Barber Road in Gainesville for $10 on Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pet owner can call 678-450-1587 to make an appointment.