Orange County Animal Services said Wednesday it confirmed a positive case of rabies in a raccoon found in Chapel Hill.

The raccoon was sent for testing by OCAS on Saturday, May 23 after it got into an altercation with two dogs. The condition of the dogs is unknown. It was found by animal control near East Franklin Street and Glendale Drive, just north of the Gimghoul Historic District. After it was received by the North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health, the lab confirmed it as positive for rabies.

“Ensuring that all pets remain current on their rabies vaccinations is the single most effective way to protect your pets and your home,” the release from OCAS said. “Pet owners can consult their veterinarian for vaccine guidance, or contact Orange County Animal Services directly to learn more about affordable vaccination options.”

The raccoon is the fifth confirmed case of rabies in the community as of May 2026. Most recently, on Friday, May 15, OCAS said two people were being treated for rabies after being bit by a fox, which has not been found as of May 27. 

Rabies, which is a viral infection, spreads via direct contact and secondary exposure to saliva, usually through bites, scratches or direct contact with eyes, mouths or open wounds. The North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services’ page on rabies information and statistics can be found here.

 

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