Two rabies cases in Orange County prompt wildlife exposure precautions

Orange County reports two rabies-positive animals—a raccoon in Chapel Hill and a cat in Hillsborough—leading to animal-control actions; a dog bitten by the raccoon is being treated, and the person exposed to the cat is receiving rabies prophylaxis. Health officials note risk assessment is used to decide post-exposure treatment, and pet-vaccination rules require boosters for exposed vaccinated pets (within 96 hours) or quarantine/euthanasia for unvaccinated pets. Rabies remains fatal; bats are common hosts, and contact animal control or 911 after hours if exposure occurs.