HELEN, Ga. — A stray cat found in downtown Helen has tested positive for rabies, marking the first confirmed case of the virus in White County this year, according to public health officials.
The Georgia Department of Public Health’s District 2 office and the White County Office of Public Safety announced the positive test Thursday.
According to the release, out-of-county visitors picked up the stray cat on Feb. 20 after it appeared sick. The following day, Feb. 21, the individual attempting to help the animal was bitten. The cat was taken to a veterinarian on Feb. 22 for evaluation and was euthanized due to neurological issues.
The animal was then sent to the Georgia Public Health Laboratory’s virology section in Decatur for testing. On Feb. 26, the White County Environmental Health Department was notified that the cat tested positive for rabies.
Officials said this is the first confirmed rabies case in White County in 2026.
Public health officials plan to post rabies alert signs in the area where the cat was found in downtown Helen. Anyone who lives in the area and believes they may have been exposed to a rabid animal is urged to contact White County Environmental Health at 706-348-7698 during regular business hours.
Authorities are also reminding pet owners to ensure their animals are vaccinated against rabies and to consult a local veterinarian to schedule vaccinations if needed,
In addition, officials emphasized that members of the public should not attempt to trap, catch, feed or handle stray animals or wildlife under any circumstances.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. Health officials say prompt medical evaluation following potential exposure is critical.
