NORFOLK, Va. - A kitten picked up near the 8000 block of East Glen Road in the Oakdale Farms/Monticello Village section of Norfolk June 14 tested positive for rabies, according to the City of Norfolk.
The kitten, described as a stray, black and white in color, was exhibiting neurological symptoms when it was found. It was confirmed to have rabies late June 17.
If you have been bitten or scratched by a stray cat in the Oakdale Farms or Monticello Village area, please contact the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
All animal bites and scratches should be reported to the local health department. Rabies is a fatal disease, but is preventable if treatment is begun early and completed as recommended by a medical provider.
Exposure incidents occurring in the city of Norfolk should be reported to the Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712 or Norfolk Animal Control at 757-664-7387.
The following precautions are recommended to reduce the risk of rabies exposure:
- Be sure dogs and cats are up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Keep pets confined to home and yard.
- Keep yards free of food that could attract wild animals.
- Do not handle, touch or take in stray or wild animals.
- Warn adults and children to report any animal bites or scratches.
- Report stray or unvaccinated animals to Animal Control at 757-664-7387.
- Report all animal or human exposures to the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
For further information, please contact the Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
