Raccoon attacks are becoming more frequent in North Carolina, health authorities immediately warn

Health officials in Henderson County, North Carolina, are warning residents that there has been an unusual increase in raccoon attacks in recent months.

The local health department said attacks by this type of animal do not normally occur, according to a statement received by ABC News Asheville on Wednesday.

“We are considering this to be unusual raccoon activity. There have been some human-animal interactions over the past 2-3 months. This is unusual as we do not normally observe raccoon attacks,” the statement said.

“In addition, we have also received several reports of sick raccoons. I can add that the human contacts have received post-exposure prophylaxis. The affected animal has been quarantined.”

A major concern in these encounters is the spread of rabies, a potentially fatal disease that, according to the World Health Organization, can be transmitted to humans through saliva, usually through bites, scratches or even licks from infected animals.

The disease can also occur in apparently healthy animals and typically spreads in wild mammals such as raccoons, bats, skunks and foxes.

Health officials urge Henderson County residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any contact with raccoons to authorities to reduce the risk of rabies transmission.