A rabid raccoon discovered in a Southern California backyard has triggered Los Angeles County’s first raccoon rabies warning in more than half a century.
The animal was found at a Westlake Village home, where it entered a residential backyard without showing aggression toward people but clearly appeared unwell, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said on Monday. A dog that had contact with the raccoon was placed under quarantine; the pet had updated vaccines and is reported to be doing fine.
Four people working at a nearby site who may have been exposed to the sick animal are now receiving recommended follow-up care for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis, officials confirmed. The variant of rabies affecting the raccoon remains unknown as laboratory investigation continues, with results from subsequent testing expected to take up to several weeks.
“The detection of rabies in a raccoon is an important reminder to never touch, handle, or feed any wild animals, even when they appear healthy,” said Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, in a statement issued by the department.
“Always keep a safe distance from wildlife and contact your local animal control if you encounter an animal that appears sick, injured, or is behaving unusually.”
Health authorities believe the raccoon was likely infected by a bat, though confirmation awaits specialized testing. The finding breaks a 52-year gap since the county’s last documented rabid raccoon case in 1973.
Rabies attacks the brain and nervous system of humans and animals alike. The viral disease is 100 percent fatal once symptoms set in, which can include fever, confusion, agitation, and difficulty swallowing. Transmission occurs through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly via bites, though exposure can also happen if saliva enters the eyes, mouth, or an open wound.
While raccoon rabies has been absent from the county for decades, bats have presented a growing concern. A record 70 rabid bat cases have been recorded in Los Angeles County in 2026, with peak season for such encounters still ahead.
“Rabid bats have been found in every part of Los Angeles County, from suburban areas such as the San Fernando Valley to urban areas like downtown Los Angeles, in office buildings, parks, schools, businesses, and residential backyards,” the county’s announcement stated.
“One third of bat encounters occur indoors, where exposure risk is higher.”
Anyone bitten by a wild animal should seek immediate medical care and report the incident to a public health agency, the department emphasized. Pets bitten by wild animals require prompt veterinary attention and must be reported to animal control. Rabies remains preventable with timely post-exposure treatment administered before symptoms develop.
The county urged residents to vaccinate their pets against rabies and to avoid all contact with bats and other wild animals, regardless of whether the creatures seem healthy or approachable.