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Second rabid raccoon found in Westlake Village
ABC7 Los Angeles • • health
Key Points:
- A second rabies-positive raccoon was found in Westlake Village, Los Angeles County, prompting health officials to warn residents to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure pets are vaccinated.
- The newly discovered raccoon appeared sick and aggressive, and two people at a nearby worksite may have been exposed and are receiving follow-up care.
- The first rabid raccoon found in the county since 1973 tested positive for a bat rabies variant; testing is ongoing to determine the strain in the second raccoon.
- Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but timely post-exposure prophylaxis is highly effective; officials urge immediate medical care after any wild animal bite.
- Residents are advised to avoid feeding or handling wildlife, secure trash and pet food, and report sick or unusual animals to local animal control to prevent rabies spread.
