Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Prince George

January 9, 2025
Media Contact: Tara Rose, tara.rose@vdh.virginia.gov 

Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Prince George

PRINCE GEORGE, Va. – The Crater Health District has received confirmation that a raccoon has tested positive for the rabies virus near Arwood Road in Prince George, VA.  The Prince George Health Department and Prince George Animal Control encourage animal owners to confirm that all pet vaccinations are current and report any stray animals.

Anyone having information regarding exposure to this animal (bite, scratch, or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, mouth) should contact the Crater Health District Environmental Health Office, at 804-863-1652. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal.

“Please notify public health officials or animal control immediately if you live near Arwood Road and think you or your pet(s) had contact with the infected raccoon. The community’s safety is our priority. Make sure your pets are vaccinated, especially against rabies, “said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH, MDiv.

“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.
  • Report stray animals to your local animal control agency.
  • Enjoy wildlife from a distance – don’t feed or encourage wild animals or stray cats and dogs to visit your premises

To report a stray and/or suspicious animal, please contact Prince George Animal Control at 804-991-3200 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/.

Last Updated: January 9, 2025