Fannin County, Ga. Environmental Health officials say a raccoon has tested positive for rabies in that county.

They say the raccoon got into a fight with two dogs in Mineral Bluff. The dogs were not vaccinated. Officials are still trying to decide if they will have to be put down or not.

There was no known human exposure to the raccoon.

According to Health Specialist Shannon Bradburn, authorities are contacting residents in the area to assess if others may have been exposed and to alert them to the possibility of more rabid animals in the area.

If you are bitten by a potentially rabid animal, thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water, rinse for several minutes, and seek immediate medical attention.

If a pet is bitten, seek veterinary assistance for the animal right away.  The health care provider and/or the veterinarian will need to report exposure to local environmental health officials who will use the following criteria to assess the risk of rabies exposure:
    - The geographic location of the incident
    - The type of animal that was involved
    - How the exposure occurred (provoked or unprovoked)
    - The vaccination status of the animal(s)
    - Whether the animal can be safely captured and tested for rabies

Individuals can help prevent the spread of rabies by making sure pets are current on their vaccinations. To prevent rabies exposure, avoid contact with all unfamiliar animals, both domestic and wild.
Rabid Raccoon Found in North Georgia