Rabies Alert: Rare Case Confirmed on Cape Cod, Health Officials Seek Public's Help

In a concerning development, the deceased raccoon found in Eastham has tested positive for rabies.

In a concerning development, the deceased raccoon found in Eastham, Massachusetts on Sunday, November 17, 2024, has tested positive for rabies. The animal, which was discovered with porcupine quills embedded in its body near the Wild Care Cape Cod Wildlife rehabilitation center on Smith Lane, represents the first confirmed case of raccoon rabies in Barnstable County since 2021.

According to the Cape Cod & Southeast Massachusetts Rabies Task Force (CCSMRTF) the presence of both rabies and porcupine quills is particularly alarming, as porcupines have not been documented on Cape Cod since 2010. The organization also pointed out a concerning correlation: "In areas where raccoons and porcupines coexist, there is a positive correlation between raccoons with quills in them and having rabies!" This fate has come true, with the raccoon testing positive for rabies after further testing was conducted. Now, officials from the CCSMRTF are hoping to find out more information about where the animal came from.

Wild Care Cape Cod, where the raccoon was found, has joined the appeal for information. The Executive Director, stated, "The deceased raccoon that was deposited on Smith Ln. at Wild Care tested positive for rabies. Information is needed on the origin of the location in which the raccoon was found. Please see below."

Anyone with knowledge about this incident is strongly encouraged to contact Brian Bjorklund at (413) 537-9394 or email CARE@capecod.gov. The Cape Cod & Southeast Massachusetts Rabies Task Force has assured that information and tips may remain anonymous.