Rabies Alert Issued in Apex

A raccoon killed by a dog Tuesday near the Segdemoor subdivision off Ten Ten Road tested positive for rabies. The dog hasn't been vaccinated against rabies and will have to be euthanized or quarantined for six months, officials said.

"We don't want to alarm residents in Apex, but they should be aware of this case and of the potential for exposure to themselves, family members and their pets," Gibbie Harris, Wake County Community Health director, said in a statement. "Anyone living in or visiting the area, who has been scratched or bitten by an animal they do not know should call our clinic."

The daytime phone number for Wake County Community Health is 919-250-4462; the after-hours number is 919-839-3059.

Wake County Animal Control officials urged residents to take the following precautions: Don't approach wildlife, especially during the daytime; ensure pets have current rabies vaccinations; don't leave trash or food outside unless in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid; don't leave food outside overnight for pets; don't leave pets outdoors unattended; contact a veterinarian if a pet comes in contact with an animal that might be rabid.