Sure, raccoons look all cute and cuddly, but in reality they're huge carriers of deadly diseases. Raccoons of all sizes have the potential to carry diseases, it doesn't matter if they were just born, they can still be covered in viruses, bacteria and parasites, said The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. Humans can also pick up these infections by inappropriately handling raccoon excrement, or more seriously, if they come into contact with the animal. Being bitten, scratched or exposed to feces are all cause for a trip to the doctor.
There are are several types of diseases humans can contract from these masked pests. Know what danger you're in if you come too close to a raccoon:
If you do have a run-in with a raccoon, you should immediately get tested for an infection, - it'll be important to get ahead of any resulting disease. Of course, keeping raccoons away from your property is the best source of prevention. In order to do this KingCountry.gov explained that you should do your best to raccoon-proof your residence. Basic advice warns you against feeding these pests, as they will keep returning to your home if they know it is a source of food. Keep a tight lock on your trash bins, even strap lids down if you have to, and store pet food indoors. If you've had a barbecue, make sure you bring in all the fixings, and give the grill a thorough cleaning. Consider getting motion detector lights on your home. Raccoons are nocturnal animals and are easily scared, so having a bright light snap on if they get too close will send them back into the darkness.
If you have a real infestation on your hands, or notice a raccoon acting oddly - like approaching you during the day, or foaming at the mouth - be sure to call local pest control management. These situations are too much for someone who isn't professionally trained to deal with, so leave it to them.