Rabid raccoon puts Bensonhurst neighborhood on alert

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (WABC) -- A raccoon recently found in Bensonhurst tested positive for rabies.

The raccoon, found on the 7800 block of 16th Avenue in Brooklyn, may have infected feral cats and kittens before it died.

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Services has alerted the area and reminded residents to avoid petting or feeding stray animals. If bitten by a stray, the victim should seek medical attention or call 311 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

For more information, please visit: http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/diseases/cdrab-faq.shtml