NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WVEC) -- A raccoon tested positive for the rabies virus, Wednesday.
The Peninsula Health District is notifying the residents and businesses in the area. The raccoon was found in the 500 block of Lucas Creek Rd.
If anyone has had contact with this animal and may have been exposed, through biting, scratching, or saliva by an open wound, eyes, nose, or mouth, they are encouraged to contact the Health Department at (757) 594-7340.
If you think your pet may have been exposed please contact Newport News Animal Control at (757) 595-7387.
Rabies is a fatal, and preventable disease. The disease is carried by mammals, and has existed in the Peninsula since the mid 1980's.
The Peninsula Health District would like to remind everyone that they should vaccinate their pets, and to always enjoy wildlife from a distance.
