Halton health experts looking for cyclist after raccoon contact

Halton health officials are trying to track down a cyclist who handled two raccoons in Burlington last weekend, in the midst of a rabies outbreak among local wildlife.

In a news release, Halton region officials say that a driver and a cyclist were reported to have had "direct contact" with two raccoons found at Brant Street and Upper Middle Road on May 12 at around 7 p.m.

The health department has managed to track down the driver, but hasn't been able to find the cyclist. It is urging that person to contact a doctor right away, and call 311 to speak to a public health inspector.

"While the Halton Region Health Department has not received any positive rabies test results in wild or domestic animals in 2018, 19 positive test results were reported in wild animals in Halton region in 2017," said Dr. Julie Emili, associate medical officer of health for Halton region, in a statement.

"The Health Department is reminding residents to avoid all contact with raccoons, skunks and other wild animals, including touching, handling, feeding or relocating them."

Rabies is a viral disease that if untreated before symptoms appear will lead to death.

The virus is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually entering through a bite or scratch.