FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2023
Jordan Shelton, CSHD communications specialist & PIO
jordan.shelton@vdh.virginia.gov
Cat Tests Positive for Rabies Virus in the Central Shenandoah Health District
(STAUNTON, Va.) — The Central Shenandoah Health District is notifying the public of a rabid stray cat found on the James Madison University campus on December 17, 2022. The cat was brought to the Rockingham Harrisonburg SPCA prior to being euthanized and tested positive for rabies December 22.
This animal no longer poses a threat to the public, however, anyone who believes that they, their child, or their pet might have made contact with a stray cat in the days leading up to December 17, 2022 should call the Staunton-Augusta Health Department at (540) 332-7830. Potential exposures to a rabid animal include bites, scratches, or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, and/or mouth.
Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease carried by mammals that is endemic to the area. CSHD 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.
- 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 Staunton-Augusta Health Department at (540) 332-7830.