Dozens of raccoons dead in Central Park after 'zombie-like' virus

Dozens of raccoons dead in Central Park after 'zombie-like' virus
Jeff Smith reports on the viral outbreak affecting raccoons.
AP Photo/Pat Wellenbach
ByEyewitness News WABC logo
Monday, July 23, 2018

NEW YORK (WABC) -- A viral outbreak is now being blamed for the deaths of more than two dozen raccoons in Central Park.

The virus apparently causes the critters to act like "zombies."

At least 26 raccoons have been found dead since late June.

None tested positive for rabies, but two did test positive for canine distemper virus.

The virus does not affect people, but it can spread to unvaccinated dogs.

The infected raccoons can be aggressive and may have spasms or look confused.

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