August 6, 2026
Media Contact: Sarah Kott, PIO, sarah.kott@vdh.virginia.gov
Piedmont Health District Advises of Rabies Detected in a Skunk in vicinity of a Feral Cat Colony
CUMBERLAND, Va. – On August 5, 2026, a skunk tested positive for rabies in the area of Deer Run, off Holman Mill Road in Cumberland County. A feral cat colony was located within this area, and out of caution Cumberland Animal Control is collecting this colony. One cat, which had known contact with the rabid skunk, was tested for rabies and found to be negative. There have been no human exposures.
Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It can spread to people and pets if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal. Any person or family pet bitten or scratched by an animal should be reported to the local health department in order to determine any risk of rabies exposure and to receive recommendations for medical care.
The Piedmont Health District encourages everyone to vaccinate their pets, to protect them, family members, loved ones and the community at large from rabies. Virginia law requires domestic animals to be vaccinated against rabies.
In addition to keeping pets vaccinated and keeping vaccinations current, take these steps to protect families and pets from exposure to rabies:
- Avoid contact with wild animals, such as raccoons and skunks, 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; and
- Keep pets confined to your property or walk them on a leash.
For additional information, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-epidemiology/animal-contact-human-health/ or call the Piedmont Health District (434) 392-8187, ext. 137.