August 2, 2023
Media Contact: Julie Thacker, Julie.Thacker@vdh.virginia.gov
Bobcat Tests Positive for Rabies in Sussex County
SUSSEX, Va. – On July 26, a wild female bobcat bit one adult victim and a four-year-old white & brindle boxer hound mix. The bobcat ran from under the adult victim’s car. The victims were bit on Winfield Lane in Waverly. The Sussex County Health Department continues 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 live near Winfield Lane and think that you or your pet(s) had contact with the infected bobcat. The community’s safety is our priority. Make sure your pets are vaccinated, especially against rabies, “said Crater District Health Department 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,” said Crater Health District Environmental Health Manager Toinette Waldon.
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 Sussex County Animal Control at (804) 898-5371. 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/.
###