Old Town Alert: Rabid Raccoon Warning after Two People Bitten Near Henry Street The City Health Department has issued a warning to residents and visitors alike after two individuals were bitten by a rabid raccoon in the Old Town area. The incident occurred near Henry Street, prompting officials to take swift action to contain the situation. According to eyewitness accounts, the raccoon was seen acting erratically and aggressively around 9 pm on Tuesday night. Two people, who wish to remain anonymous, reported being bitten by the animal while walking down the street. Both victims were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and are expected to make full recoveries after receiving post-exposure prophylaxis. The raccoon was later found dead in an alleyway nearby, with tests confirming it had contracted rabies. This marks the third reported case of rabies in the city this year, prompting concerns among local residents. "We take the safety of our citizens very seriously," said City Health Director, Dr. Maria Rodriguez. "We urge everyone to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings when walking or spending time outdoors, especially at night." The health department is working closely with local animal control services to ensure that any other potentially affected animals are identified and removed from the area. In the meantime, residents are advised to take precautions when interacting with wildlife. This includes keeping a safe distance from raccoons and other animals, not feeding them, and seeking medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched. The Old Town community is being asked to remain calm but vigilant, with authorities emphasizing that this incident is an isolated one and that the city's rabies vaccination program remains effective in preventing further cases.#Rabies #Old_Town #Henry_Street #City_Health_Department #Dr_Maria_Rodriguez
Old Town Alert: Rabid Raccoon Warning after Two People Bitten Near Henry Street Residents of Old Town are on high alert following a series of incidents involving a rabid raccoon that has left two people bitten and seeking medical attention. The warning comes just as the area is experiencing an increase in outdoor activities with warmer weather approaching. According to eyewitnesses, the raccoon was spotted roaming around the Henry Street area late last night, looking for food sources. At approximately 11:45 pm, it attacked two individuals who were walking home from a local restaurant. The victims, both in their mid-30s, reported feeling a sharp pain as the animal bit down on their arms. "I thought I was going to lose my arm," said Jane Smith, one of the victims. "I tried to shoo it away, but it wouldn't leave me alone." The raccoon's aggressive behavior prompted both individuals to seek immediate medical attention at nearby hospitals. Although they are expected to make a full recovery, officials are urging residents to exercise extreme caution when encountering wildlife. "It's a reminder that even the most seemingly harmless creatures can carry diseases like rabies," said Dr. Mark Johnson, local health official. "We're doing everything in our power to track down and contain this raccoon." In light of these events, Old Town officials are advising residents to steer clear of any wild animals displaying unusual behavior or exhibiting signs of aggression. Additionally, they are urging people to keep a safe distance from any wildlife that appears sick or injured. As the search for the rabid raccoon continues, local authorities have set up traps and surveillance cameras around the affected area in an effort to capture the animal safely. Residents are cautioned not to approach or attempt to handle any wild animals themse...#Jane_Smith #Raccoon #Henry_Street #Old_Town #Dr_Mark_Johnson
