21 people exposed to rabid baby raccoon in Weld County's largest rabies case

Sady Swanson | The Coloradoan

Show Caption Hide Caption What you need to know about rabies How to identify if an animal has rabies, how to protect your pets and more things you should know about the disease.

A baby raccoon that tested positive for rabies in Weld County came into contact with 21 people before being tested, marking the largest rabies exposure case in Weld County.

A woman found the raccoon on her property and took it into her home after it was abandoned by her mother, according to a news release.

The raccoon was frequently held and would climb and lick the individuals exposed, Weld County health communications supervisor Rachel Freeman said.

Everyone who was exposed has already begun post-exposure treatment, the release stated.

“We’re not just seeing typical skunk or bat rabies this year,” said Mark Wallace, Weld County health department executive director. “It is very important that people not touch or go near wild animals."

PREVIOUSLY: How to keep yourself, pets safe after rabid cat found in Weld County, 19 rabies cases in Larimer County

There have been 15 reported rabies cases in Weld County so far this year. The last was on June 11 when a cat found near Ault tested positive for rabies.

“We’re concerned about the growing number of cases among other animals such as raccoons and cats," Wallace said in a news release.

Larimer County has also seen a rise in rabies cases this year, with 20 skunks and three bats testing positive so far — the most cases reported since 2013, when 52 rabies cases were reported.

For an interactive map of the rabies cases in Larimer County, visit https://noconow.co/rabies.

The Humane Society of Weld County offers low-cost vaccination clinics on the first and third Saturday every month from 1:30-3:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.weldcountyhumane.org/veterinary-services.

What are the signs and symptoms of rabies?

Signs of rabies include increased drooling and saliva, nocturnal animals seen out and active during the day, slow or difficult movement, confusion and aggression.

If you think you have been exposed to rabies, contact your doctor immediately. Rabies is almost always fatal if left untreated, but medicine is available to prevent contracting rabies if started before symptoms appear, according to a news release.

How to prevent being exposed to rabies: