Newport News, Va. – The Peninsula Health District is warning residents and businesses in the area around the 5000 block of Andrew Place that a wild raccoon has tested positive for the rabies virus.
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 the Newport News Animal Control at (757) 595-7387.
Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease that is carried by mammals and has been in the wild animal population on the Peninsula since the mid 1980’s.
The District would like to remind everyone to follow these four important rabies prevention guidelines:
- Vaccinate your pets.
- Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.
- Enjoy wildlife from a distance – don’t feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your premises.
- Do not feed your pets outside, leave trash uncovered, or do anything that may attract wild animals to your property.
