December 1, 2021
Media Contact: Norfolk Health Department Environmental Health Manager Norman Grefe, Norman.Grefe@vdh.virginia.gov, 757-683-2824
Rabid Raccoon Found in Colonial Place Section of Norfolk
NORFOLK, Va. – A raccoon in Norfolk has tested positive for rabies. The raccoon was killed by a dog along 700 block of Georgia Ave in the Colonial Place neighborhood on November 27, 2021. The raccoon was subsequently sent to the Virginia Department of Consolidated Laboratory Services in Richmond for testing and was reported positive for rabies on November 30, 2021. The dog involved in the incident was up to date on its rabies vaccinations. If you have been bitten or scratched by a raccoon in this area, please contact the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
It is important to note that 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.
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