A stray cat found in downtown Helen has tested positive for rabies, and White County officials say they are not taking any chances. The case - the county's first confirmed rabies diagnosis of 2026 - began when an out-of-county visitor trying to help the sick animal was bitten. County staff plan to post warning signs in the area where the cat was picked up and are urging anyone who might have had contact with it to reach out for guidance.
How the case was confirmed
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, visitors first spotted the cat looking sick in downtown Helen on Feb. 20. The next day, an individual who tried to help the animal was bitten. The cat was taken to a veterinarian and euthanized because of neurological symptoms so that samples could be submitted for testing. The Georgia Public Health Lab in Decatur later confirmed the cat was positive for rabies, and White County Environmental Health was notified.
What to do if you were exposed
Rabies attacks the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but prompt post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is highly effective. The Georgia Department of Public Health advises that anyone bitten or otherwise exposed should immediately wash the wound with soap and water and then seek medical care to determine whether PEP is needed, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. Health officials also stress keeping pets' rabies vaccinations current and avoiding contact with wildlife or any animal acting strangely.
Local alerts and who to call
White County officials say they will post positive alert signs in the downtown area where the cat was picked up, and they are asking anyone who believes they may have been exposed to contact the county. Per FOX 5 Atlanta, residents and visitors with concerns should call White County Environmental Health during regular business hours at 706-348-7698.
Pet owners: quick checklist
Local officials are also reminding pet owners to run through a quick safety checklist. Keep dogs and cats leashed or indoors, verify that their rabies vaccinations are up to date, and contact your veterinarian if you suspect a possible exposure. White County Environmental Health notes that the department accepts specimens for rabies testing and provides guidance to residents on what to do next. If you encounter an animal acting oddly, do not touch it - call animal control or your local health office instead.
For more information on rabies prevention and what to do after a potential exposure, see the Georgia Department of Public Health's rabies guidance at Georgia Department of Public Health. If you believe you have been exposed, seek medical care promptly and follow the advice of health authorities.
