DeKalb County

14th case of rabies reported in DeKalb County

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Neighbors say a confirmed rabies case in their community has them on edge. This is the 14th confirmed case of rabies in DeKalb County this year.

A raccoon rested positive for the deadly disease after being trapped on Durham Circle near Redan Road in Stone Mountain.

Channel 2's Wendy Corona spoke to neighbors, who said there is a big raccoon problem in their area. One woman said raccoons are such a problem they've gotten into her roof.

Margaret Hester said the animals used to raid her trash nearly every night before she took matters into her own hands.

"We do have a terrible raccoon problem. I see them on camera," Hester said.

Hester told Corona the raccoons have forced her to strap down the lid of her trash can. She said she still sees them try to get in on her surveillance cameras.

Now, the fact that a raccoon that was trapped on the street has tested positive for rabies makes the problem that much worse.

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"It's dangerous," Sam Wess said. "That's not good for kids. We have grandkids, so I'm scared."

The neighborhood Durham Circle is on is thick with trees and vegetation and neighbors say the raccoons may be attracted to a nearby lake.

County officials have urged residents to do as Hester does and secure their trash.

"Make sure there's no food that they can get in to," Hester said. "Try to discourage them that way."

Officials also say you should keep an eye on our pets and not keep pet food outside. Pet owners should also make sure pets are up to date on vaccines.