Rabid raccoon confirmed in Boardman

BOARDMAN — An Ohio Department of Health Laboratory report has confirmed a raccoon located in the township has tested positive for the rabies virus variant common to raccoons in the Eastern United States.

The raccoon was found in central Boardman due to a reported exposure between the raccoon and a dog. The dog was verified as current on the rabies vaccination and also received a booster vaccination, but it is being quarantined for 45 days for precautionary measures.

If a suspected sick or dead raccoon, skunk, or fox that is not decayed or displays signs of cranial damage is found, residents should contact their local health department for surveillance purposes.

If found in the Youngstown, call the Youngstown City Health District at 330-743-3333. If found in all other Mahoning County communities, call the Mahoning County District Board of Health at 330-270-2855, ext. 2.