Second rabies-positive raccoon discovered in Westlake Village

Los Angeles County health officials confirmed Friday that a second raccoon testing positive for rabies was found in a backyard in Westlake Village, the same general area where the first case was identified in early October. The animal appeared sick and aggressive, and two workers at a nearby site may have been exposed; they are receiving follow-up care.

"The detection of rabies in another raccoon is an important reminder to never touch, handle, or feed any wild animals, even when they appear healthy," said Dr. Muntu Davis, the county health officer. "Always keep a safe distance from wildlife and contact your local animal control if you encounter an animal that appears to be sick, injured, or behaving unusually. It is also critical to ensure your pets are up to date on rabies vaccination so they are protected before any potential exposure. Keeping your pets vaccinated is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your entire family."

The Department of Public Health is testing the second raccoon to determine its rabies strain. The earlier case was linked to a bat-associated variant, the same type that has appeared in skunks and other wildlife in recent years. The county last recorded a non-bat rabies strain in a skunk in 2014.

Officials noted that rabies remains fatal in humans once symptoms develop, but post-exposure prophylaxis is highly effective when administered promptly. They reiterated recommendations to vaccinate pets, avoid feeding or leaving food outdoors for wildlife, secure trash, and report any sick or injured wild animals to animal control.