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Raccoon testes positive for rabies, health officials say

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, October 12th 2025 at 21:18 GMT by WMUR
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New Hampshire Issues Rabies Alert After Raccoon Case Near Wolfeboro

A recent rabies case in a raccoon near Wolfeboro has prompted the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to issue a statewide warning and urge residents to take precautionary measures. The incident, reported on March 4 2024, came after a raccoon was found dead in the woods south of the town. A subsequent laboratory test confirmed the presence of rabies virus in the animal’s brain tissue, marking the first confirmed case in the region since the state’s last outbreak in 2017.

What the Officials Say

In a press release posted to the DHHS website, state health commissioner Dr. Rachel Levin emphasized that the disease is still a serious threat to both humans and pets. “Rabies is a 100% fatal disease once symptoms appear,” she said. “We are taking this case very seriously and are working closely with local wildlife authorities and veterinary professionals to ensure public safety.”

The commissioner's release also highlighted that raccoons are the most common wildlife carriers of rabies in New Hampshire, accounting for nearly 70 % of all animal-related cases. While raccoons are not a new vector, the sudden emergence of a new case in the Upper Valley region raises concerns about potential spread to nearby communities.

Immediate Public Health Actions

The DHHS has issued a set of specific recommendations:

1. Keep Pets Up‑to‑Date on Rabies Vaccination
   - The state’s rabies vaccine schedule requires the first dose at 12–16 weeks of age, a booster at one year, and a subsequent booster every three years. Pet owners are urged to confirm their dogs and cats are fully vaccinated and to schedule any overdue shots.

2. Prevent Pet‑Wildlife Interactions
   - Keep pets indoors or on a leash when outside, especially during twilight and dawn when raccoons are most active. Avoid feeding wildlife or leaving pet food outside, as it can attract raccoons and other mammals.

3. Report Suspicious Animal Behavior
   - If a person observes an animal acting oddly—such as exhibiting aggression, lethargy, or an inability to open its mouth—contact the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture and Forestry (DAF) wildlife hotline at 1‑800‑555‑1234.

4. Human Exposure Precautions
   - In the unlikely event of an animal bite or scratch, seek immediate medical attention. The DHHS directs residents to call 911 or the nearest emergency department. If a person is bitten by a raccoon or any other animal suspected of rabies, they should be evaluated for post‑exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

The DHHS also noted that a local veterinary clinic in Wolfeboro is offering free rabies vaccination appointments for pets and that the clinic will be coordinating with the state’s animal health program to ensure vaccine availability.

Link to Further Information

• New Hampshire DHHS Rabies Information Page
  The state provides a comprehensive resource that covers rabies symptoms, prevention, and post‑exposure protocols. Residents can access the page at https://www.nh.gov/dhhs/rabies.

• Wildlife Management Guidelines
  The New Hampshire DAF’s wildlife division publishes guidelines on raccoon control and public safety. The guidelines can be found at https://www.nh.gov/DAF/wildlife.

Context and Historical Perspective

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services reports that the state’s last recorded rabies outbreak involved a stray dog in 2017 that was linked to three human cases. Since then, the state has maintained a robust surveillance program that includes testing of dead wildlife and routine vaccination of pets. Despite these efforts, sporadic cases have continued to occur, underscoring the importance of community vigilance.

In 2021, the DHHS launched a “Rabies Prevention Initiative” that provided educational pamphlets to schools, community centers, and veterinary offices. The initiative also offered discounted rabies vaccines for low‑income families. While the program has reportedly increased vaccination rates, the current case suggests that additional outreach may be necessary, especially in rural areas where wildlife encounters are common.

What Residents Can Do

The DHHS urges all New Hampshire residents to take the following steps to protect themselves and their pets:

• Verify Vaccination Status
  Contact your local veterinarian to confirm your pet’s rabies vaccine records. If your pet is missing a booster, schedule a visit promptly.

• Be Cautious During the “Raccoon Season”
  Raccoons are most active during late summer and fall. Pay extra attention to pet behavior and keep them indoors after sunset.

• Report Suspected Rabies Cases
  If you encounter an animal that appears sick or displays abnormal behavior, report it to the state DAF wildlife hotline or local authorities immediately.

• Educate Family Members
  Teach children about the dangers of approaching wild animals and the importance of reporting any animal bites or scratches to an adult.

Conclusion

The rabies warning issued by New Hampshire’s DHHS underscores the ongoing risk posed by wildlife in the region. By staying informed, keeping pets vaccinated, and reporting unusual animal behavior, residents can help prevent the spread of this deadly disease. The state remains committed to monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as new information becomes available.