April 17, 2025
Media Contact: Mary Wainwright, Environmental Health Manager,
Hampton and Peninsula Health Districts
757-508-0970 or peninsula.eh@vdh.virginia.gov
Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies Virus
JAMES CITY COUNTY, Va. – A skunk found in the 3000 Block of Forge Road and Route 60 has tested positive for the rabies virus. Anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal should contact the Peninsula Health District’s Newport News Environmental Health Office at (757) 594-7340 or JCC Animal Control, (757) 565-0370 (daytime) or (757) 253-1800 (evenings, weekends and holidays).
Exposures include direct contact with the saliva of the rabid animal by either a person or a pet. This can occur via a bite or scratch, or through any open wound, eyes, nose or mouth.
Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease that is carried by mammals and has been in the wild animal population on the Peninsula since the mid 1980’s. Our local office of Environmental Health Services will be contacting the immediate neighbors as well as any civic or homeowner’s association that serves the community.
The Peninsula Health District would like to remind all citizens to follow these three important rabies prevention guidelines:
- Vaccinate your pets.
- Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.
- Enjoy wildlife from a distance – don’t feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your premises.
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