Most are born in April or early May, but a few may arrive as late as August. Their eyes open at 18-29 days of age. Young raccoons can care for themselves by fall, but many stay with their mother until the next spring. Distemper does not affect humans, but can be passed on to domestic dogs and other types of wildlife like striped skunks, coyotes, and foxes. Outbreaks of distemper have increased with high raccoon populations, and large numbers of dead or dying raccoons are often evidence of a local epidemic.
Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium that can infect all mammals, including humans.
Humans can catch this disease by coming in contact with an infected animal's urine. Direct contact isn't necessary. Swimming in a pond or touching food, soil, or other surfaces where a raccoon has urinated can cause infection. Flu-like symptoms are most common, but jaundice, kidney failure, and death can occur in severe cases. Good hygiene, especially when camping or picnicking, is the best prevention.