Jamestown raccoon tests positive for rabies, Guilford County's sixth case

A raccoon found on Harvey Road in Jamestown tested positive for the rabies virus on Feb. 5, the Guilford County Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, announced, marking the county’s sixth confirmed animal rabies case of 2026. County officials are urging pet owners and neighborhood residents to take precautions as wildlife rabies remains present in the area.

The department reiterated state vaccination requirements for companion animals: "All pets, whether living inside or outside, four months and older, must get vaccinated for rabies under state law." Officials emphasize that animals confined in outdoor fenced areas should also have current rabies vaccinations to reduce the risk of exposure.

Public-health guidance focuses on preventing contact between pets and wildlife and on prompt medical steps after any possible exposure. "Anyone bitten by an animal should immediately wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical care and report the incident to Animal Control." County releases also note that "Rabies circulates within our wildlife population throughout the entire year," so vigilance is needed even outside traditional seasons for wildlife activity.

Guilford County Animal Services is the primary resource for prevention information and concerns about local animals. Residents can call Guilford County Animal Services at 336-641-2506 for guidance about vaccinations and pet safety. To report stray, sick, or injured animals, contact Animal Control in Greensboro at 336-641-5990 or High Point Animal Control at 336-883-3224. For questions about the current case, media or residents may contact Jorge Ortega at 336-641-3409 or jortega1@guilfordcountync.gov. The county government office is located at 301 W. Market St., Greensboro, NC 27401, and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For Guilford County households, the practical implications are straightforward: verify your pets’ rabies vaccinations, keep cats and dogs supervised when outdoors, and avoid interacting with raccoons or other wild animals that appear disoriented, aggressive, or unusually tame. If you encounter an animal that seems sick or threatening, report it to the appropriate Animal Control number above rather than attempting to handle it yourself.

This case underscores that rabies is an ongoing public-health concern in Guilford County. Residents should use the listed contacts to confirm their pets’ vaccine status, report suspicious animals, and seek medical care promptly if exposure occurs. Local officials will continue to monitor cases and provide updates as they become available.