Programs

Frequently asked questions about general environmental issues

Rabies

Rabies Prevention Program History

The current outbreak of rabies came to Virginia Beach in 1992. Since then we have confirmed 59 cases of rabies in animals. These include 53 raccoons, 3 bats, 2 cats, and 1 fox. Once the symptoms are established, rabies is universally fatal. The good news is that thanks to an excellent reporting system and excellent post exposure vaccines, no human has contracted the disease in Virginia Beach.

General Rabies Precautions

1. NEVER approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, opossums, foxes, skunks, and strange dogs or cats.
2. ALWAYS REPORT all animal bites/scratches to the Animal Control Bureau at 427-5616 or the Virginia Beach Department of Public Health at 491-5940.
3. ALWAYS consult with you health care provider about animal bites and/or scratches.
4. ALWAYS keep your pets rabies vaccination current and up to date. Consult with your veterinarian about vaccination status and any suspicious wounds.
5. PROTECT YOUR PETS BY CONFINING THEM TO YOUR PROPERTY

Kids Against Rabies - In an effort to reach children and inform them of the dangers of rabies, the Virginia Department of Health developed a program for elementary school aged children. This has been presented in classrooms throughout the city. In 1996, in cooperation with the Virginia Beach Video Services Department, the program was reworked into a taped presentation. This presentation has received two nationally recognized awards, an 18th ANNUAL TELLY award in the non-broadcast film/video & TV program category, and a 1997 Award for Excellence in Environmental Health from the National Association of County & City Health Officials.

Our Kids Against Rabies Team from left to right: Kevin Cornwell, Lisa Tortomasi, Venessa Baird, Amy Aird, Melanie Roberts, Anita Blackwell.

Public Swimming Pool Program

All public swimming pools are regulated by the Virginia Beach Department of Public Health. This regulatory effort consists of periodic inspections and training of swimming pool operators. Virginia Beach has over 330 public swimming pools under permit. Swimming Pool Regulations will be online soon.

Tourist Establishment Program

The Tourist Establishment Program includes Hotels, Motels, and Campgrounds. There are over 142 Tourist Establishments under permit in Virginia Beach.

Environmental Complaints Program

Environmental complaints range from concerns about rodents to evaluation of fish kills. From January 1997 to July 1997 over 400 general environmental complaints were received and investigated. Environmental Health personnel are active participants in the Virginia Beach Environmental Crimes Task Force.

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