Raccoon in Wells Tests Positive for Rabies

Maine CDC seeks person with potential direct exposure

AUGUSTA-- The Maine Department of Health and Human Services' Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) is asking anyone who touched a raccoon in Wells, Maine to call 1-800-821-5821.

On Monday, December 8, a strange-acting raccoon was reported to be near the intersection of Sanford Road and Evergreen Drive in Wells. An unidentified individual is reported to have touched the raccoon in an attempt to remove the animal from the roadway. Wells Police Department collected the raccoon, which later tested positive for rabies.

If you touched this animal, please call Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821. Anyone who touched this raccoon may need post-exposure treatment. Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal. Timely post-exposure treatment is critical to prevent development of rabies.

Rabies is a virus that infects the nervous system of humans and other animals. It spreads through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. It may also spread through direct contact with the animal's saliva on an open wound.

The Maine CDC recommends these steps to prevent rabies exposure:

  • Do not feed, touch, or adopt wild animals. Be cautious of stray dogs and cats.
  • Do not move wildlife. This can spread rabies into new areas.
  • Keep garbage cans or other sources of food tightly secured.
  • Keep your pets' rabies vaccinations up to date.
  • Feed pets indoors.
  • Wash any bite or scratch wounds with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes.

Who should you contact for rabies exposures?

  • If an animal bites or scratches you, contact your health care provider.
  • If an animal bites or scratches your pet, contact your veterinarian.
  • To report a dead or suspicious-acting animal in northern Maine, contact the USDA's Wildlife Services at 866-487-3297. In other parts of the state, contact the Maine Warden Service. Contact your local Animal Control Officer if a warden is not available.

For more information: