September 6, 2026
RALEIGH, NC — State health officials say the number of people evaluated for possible rabies exposure has risen sharply after three baby goats from a mobile petting zoo tested positive last month. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, at least 284 individuals have now been assessed by local health departments, with additional families seeking guidance directly from their healthcare providers.
The updated count reflects the wide travel footprint of the goats, which appeared at multiple public and private events exclusively within North Carolina between July 28 and August 27. The animals were part of Farm Adventures, a mobile petting‑zoo business based in Iredell County.
The goats were euthanized after a skunk entered their enclosure and later tested positive for rabies.
Health officials say the goats were present at ten events across several counties, including Iredell, Davie, McDowell, Rowan, Catawba, Lincoln, and Mecklenburg. Because many of the events involved children feeding or holding the animals, communicable‑disease teams have been working to identify attendees and advise families on whether medical evaluation is needed.
Public‑health officials emphasize that casual contact, such as touching a goat’s fur, does not typically pose a rabies risk. The concern centers on saliva exposure, particularly when children feed animals by hand and may touch their face afterward. Rabies post‑exposure prophylaxis remains available statewide, and providers are reporting no supply shortages.
Farm Adventures, the mobile petting‑zoo business based in Iredell County, has been working with state and local health officials throughout the investigation. According to NCDHHS, remaining animals at the farm have received rabies boosters, and staff vaccinations have been updated as part of the public‑health response. No other animals at the business are believed to be infected.
This update follows Coastal Carolina News’ previous coverage, which first reported the discovery of rabies in the petting‑zoo goats.
State officials are continuing outreach to event organizers and families who may have had direct contact with the goats during the exposure window. Anyone with concerns about potential exposure is encouraged to consult their healthcare provider or contact their local health department.
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