May 17, 2022
Media Contact: Tara Rose, Tara.Rose@vdh.virginia.gov
Wild Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in Prince George
PRINCE GEORGE, Va. — A wild, “Ozzy”, brown bat weighing approximately 0.5 lbs. tested positive for rabies in Prince George County. The rabid bat was found flying around a residence on Berkshire Drive, North Prince George, VA 23860 on Thursday, May 12, 2022. If you or your family have animals near Berkshire Drive and are concerned about possible exposure, please call the Prince George Health Department at 804-733-2630. The Prince George Health Department and Prince George County Animal Control continue to encourage animal owners to confirm that all pet vaccinations, especially rabies, are current.
“Please notify public health officials or animal control immediately if you have animals near Berkshire Drive and feel they may have been exposed to the rabid bat. The community’s safety is our priority. Make sure your pets are vaccinated, especially against rabies, “said Crater District Health Departments Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH.
“Rabies is a preventable disease. We encourage all pet owners to vaccinate their animals to protect them and the community,” shares Toinette Waldon, Environmental Health Manager, Crater Health District.
The Health Department strongly advises that people take the following steps to prevent families and pets from being exposed to rabies:
- Vaccinate all cats, dogs and ferrets against rabies and keep them up to date.
- Avoid contact with wild animals or stray cats and dogs.
- Do not feed wild animals or stray cats and dogs.
- Report stray animals to your local animal control agency.
- Eliminate outdoor food sources around the home.
- Keep pets confined to your property or walk them on a leash.
To report a stray and/or suspicious animal, please contact Prince George County Animal Control at 804-991-3200. If you have concerns about exposure to rabies, contact your healthcare provider immediately. For more information on protecting your family from rabies, call 804-863-1652 or visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-epidemiology/rabies-control/ or www.cdc.gov/rabies/.
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