Aggressive Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Columbia County

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The Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed that a raccoon found in Grovetown, Columbia County, tested positive for rabies. The raccoon was reported to be acting aggressively by a homeowner on February 11th, and was collected by Columbia County Animal Services. After testing at the Georgia Public Health Laboratory in Waycross, the results came back positive for rabies.

Why it matters

Rabies is a serious and potentially fatal viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and pets through contact with infected animals. This incident highlights the importance of pet vaccination and public awareness around avoiding interactions with wild animals, especially those exhibiting unusual or aggressive behavior.

The details

The Columbia County Health Department Environmental Health Section has recommended that all residents ensure their pets are vaccinated against rabies and avoid all contact with wild animals. They are also asking people to report any incidents of humans or domestic animals coming into contact with wild animals to their office or the Columbia County Animal Services.

• On February 11, 2026, a homeowner in Grovetown reported seeing an aggressive raccoon.
• The raccoon was collected by Columbia County Animal Services on February 11, 2026.
• The raccoon was tested at the Georgia Public Health Laboratory in Waycross, Georgia, and the results confirmed it was positive for rabies.

What’s next

The Columbia County Health Department Environmental Health Section is urging all residents to ensure their pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and to avoid contact with wild animals, especially those exhibiting unusual behavior. They are also asking people to report any incidents of human or animal exposure to wild animals.