East Lyme ― A raccoon found on Joyce Street in the Niantic section of town has tested positive for rabies, Ledge Light Health District officials said on Friday.

Rabies, a deadly disease that can affect all warm-blooded animals, can be spread when infected saliva comes in contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes.

Ledge Light officials urged residents to not feed or approach wild or stray animals.