Rabid skunk reported in East Hall

A skunk in the Noah’s Way area of East Hall County has tested positive for rabies after having contact with a dog.

The Georgia Public Health Lab — Virology Section in Decatur advised Hall County Animal Control on Thursday that the skunk tested positive for the viral disease. It’s the ninth confirmed case of rabies in Hall County this year.

Positive alert signs will be posted in the area where the animal was located. Officials with Hall County Animal Control advised the following: “If you live in this area or you see an animal acting abnormally in the area, contact Hall County Animal Services at 770 531-6830 or Hall County Dispatch at 770 536-8812 during non-working hours.”

Animal owners are encouraged to vaccinate their pets and livestock for rabies. Vaccines are available for $10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at the Hall County Animal Shelter at 1688 Barber Road in Gainesville and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia at 845 W. Ridge Road in Gainesville. Vaccines are also available from local veterinarians.