Three raccoons have tested positive for rabies in North Smithfield and Pawtucket, the Rhode Island Department of Health announced Oct. 28.

The North Smithfield animal was found in the Black Plain Road area. Two people and a dog are being treated for potential exposure, the department said. The Pawtucket raccoons were found near Wilcox Avenue and Blaisdell Avenue, with no known human exposures.

The department said the Pawtucket locations were within a mile of a rabid raccoon reported on Hope Street in Providence the previous week.

Rhode Island had identified 46 rabid animals in 2026 as of the announcement, compared with an annual average of 25 from 2021 through 2025.

Rabies affects the nervous system and is fatal without timely treatment. Anyone who may have had direct contact with a raccoon in the affected areas should call immediately for an exposure assessment: 401-222-2577 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or 401-276-8046 after hours. Treatment must begin before symptoms appear.

For possible pet exposure, contact a veterinarian, local animal control and the Health Department.