The raccoon was seen on Thursday, Oct. 31 near the John Paulding School in Tarrytown at 154 Broadway, the Westchester County Department of Health announced on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The animal was also seen near the Warner Library and Patriots Park down the street from the school, health officials said.

After it was found, the raccoon was confirmed to be rabid. Because of this, the Health Department is now urging residents to call as soon as possible if they or their family member has had contact with it so they can be evaluated for preventative rabies treatment.

Once rabies symptoms occur, the disease is fatal. However, preventative treatment is 100 percent effective if administered early enough.

The Health Department can be reached at 914-813-5000 24 hours a day.

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