Archived News

Rabies shots likely in store for dozens

More than 40 people in Haywood County might have been exposed to rabies after a baby raccoon a family was caring for died and tested positive for the disease.

The raccoon died of rabies infection Aug. 13. Prior to its death and before the animal showed symptoms, dozens of adults and children handled the raccoon. The Haywood County Health Department sent letters to the Haywood residents last week, advising them that anyone exposed to the raccoon between June 21 and Aug. 16 should be seen by their doctor or health-care provider for assessment.

This marked the second time since early July where Haywood County residents were possibly exposed to rabies through situation that could have been prevented, said Julia Plemmons, nursing director for the Haywood County Health Department. Campers were exposed to bats while sleeping in buildings where bats were present.

Rabies is a fatal disease in humans, but getting prompt treatment can prevent it from development.

Smokey Mountain News Logo
SUPPORT THE SMOKY MOUNTAIN NEWS AND
INDEPENDENT, AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM
Go to top
Payment Information

/

At our inception 20 years ago, we chose to be different. Unlike other news organizations, we made the decision to provide in-depth, regional reporting free to anyone who wanted access to it. We don’t plan to change that model. Support from our readers will help us maintain and strengthen the editorial independence that is crucial to our mission to help make Western North Carolina a better place to call home. If you are able, please support The Smoky Mountain News.

The Smoky Mountain News is a wholly private corporation. Reader contributions support the journalistic mission of SMN to remain independent. Your support of SMN does not constitute a charitable donation. If you have a question about contributing to SMN, please contact us.