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Rabies Cases Nearly Double in Rhode Island as Two More Raccoons Test Positive
Two raccoons in Johnston and Coventry tested positive for rabies last week, bringing the state's 2026 total to 48 casesânearly double the annual average. Health officials urge anyone who may have had contact with the animals to seek immediate medical advice.
Rhode Island health officials are warning residents to be vigilant after two raccoons tested positive for rabies in Johnston and Coventry late last week, adding to a surge in animal rabies cases that has nearly doubled the state's typical annual count.
The Rhode Island Department of Health said one rabid raccoon was found in the Green Earth Avenue area of Johnston, and the other in the Plainfield Pike area of Coventry. The cases were reported Monday.
So far in 2026, 48 animals have tested positive for rabies, compared with an annual average of 25 between 2021 and 2025, according to health officials. Most of this year's cases have involved raccoons, bats and skunks, though a cat, a coyote and a woodchuck have also tested positive.
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It is spread through the saliva of infected animals, typically via bites or scratches.
Health officials are urging anyone who may have had direct contact with a raccoon in either neighborhood to call the health department immediately at 401-222-2577 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or at 401-276-8046 after hours. A nurse will assess the exposure and determine whether treatment is needed. Post-exposure treatment must begin as soon as possible and before symptoms develop.
Pet owners whose animals may have come into contact with either raccoon should contact the health department, their local animal control officer and their veterinarian.
State law requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be up to date on their rabies vaccinations, and officials reminded residents to keep their pets' shots current.
The elevated case count is a reminder that rabies remains a persistent threat in Rhode Island's wildlife, and that simple precautionsâvaccinating pets, avoiding contact with wild animals and reporting potential exposures quicklyâare the most effective defenses.