York County, Va. – A raccoon has tested positive for the rabies virus, according to Lois Gary of the Peninsula Health District.
The Peninsula Health District is notifying the residents of the Jennings Drive area of York County, that a raccoon in that area tested positive for the rabies virus.
The sick raccoon was found in a yard with a dog.
The raccoon was tested for the rabies virus and found to be positive.
Anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal (bite, scratch or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, mouth) is asked to contact the Health Department at (757) 594-7340. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal. After hours, please contact local Animal Control at (757) 890-3601.
The District would like to remind all citizens to follow these four important rabies prevention guidelines:
1. Vaccinate your pets.
2. Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.
3. Enjoy wildlife from a distance – don’t feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your premises.
4. Do not feed your pets outside, leave trash uncovered, or do anything that may attract wild animals to your property.
