NORFOLK, Va. — Author's note: The video above is on file from Nov. 16, 2021.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) said a raccoon found in the Meadowbrook section of Norfolk tested positive for rabies.
The raccoon was picked up along West Little Creek Road near Major Avenue on Dec. 1, then sent to a lab in Richmond for testing.
According to a VDH spokesperson, dogs were found playing with the raccoon. They were up-to-date on rabies vaccinations.
VDH wants to remind people that rabies is a fatal disease, but can be prevented if treatment starts early and is completed as recommended by a medical provider.
They offered some recommendations to avoid getting rabies:
- 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.