Tag: rabies

Richmond City Health District Reports Rabies in Raccoon

August 21, 2026
Richmond City Health District Reports Rabies in Raccoon
 
RICHMOND, Va. — The Richmond City Health District (RCHD) is notifying community members residing on or near the 3100 block of Shoreham Drive of a raccoon that has tested positive for rabies.
Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) was notified Wednesday, August 12th that a raccoon was acting abnormally near the 3100 block of Shoreham Drive. The raccoon was collected by RACC and submitted for testing. Results were positive for rabies. There are NO confirmed exposures to humans or animals at this time.
Anyone who has information regarding any exposure to this animal (bite, scratch, or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, or mouth) should contact the Richmond City Health District Environmental Health Office at 804-205-3912. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal. After hours, please contact Richmond Animal Care & Control at 804-646-5573.
Richmond and Henrico Health Districts remind all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:
  • Do not feed stray animals.
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies, and their shots are up to date. By law, all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals.
  • Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches.
  • Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your healthcare provider or the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts.
For more information about rabies, visit the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control web page.
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Piedmont Health District Advises of Rabies Detected in a Skunk in vicinity of a Feral Cat Colony

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.

Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

August 4, 2026

Media Contact: Dwight Richards, Population Health Manager, 757-514-4740

 

Bat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, Va. – The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a bat tested positive for rabies. The bat was found in the 300 block of Turlington Rd. The deceased bat was found by a dog, whose owner alerted Animal Control. The bat was collected and tested for rabies.

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them. The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment are critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends that Suffolk residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855 or the Suffolk Health Department at 757-514-4751.
  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite or scratch to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.
  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets are current their rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Suffolk Animal Control, or the Suffolk Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
  • Confine your pets to your property.
  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Suffolk Health Department at 757-514-4751, Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 

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Central Virginia Health District Confirms Rabid Fox

July 24, 2026
Media Contact: Kim Foster, kimberlee.foster@vdh.virginia.gov

Central Virginia Health District Confirms Rabid Fox

LYNCHBURG, Va. – The Lynchburg Health Department has received confirmation that a fox has tested positive for rabies. The fox was in the vicinity of Hancock Street in Lynchburg. Anyone who may have been exposed to a fox or other animal, by a bite, scratch or contact with saliva, in that area should consult with their physician and contact the Lynchburg Health Department at (434) 477-5921. You may also contact the health department by email at askCVHD@vdh.virginia.gov.

This incident is a reminder that rabies is present in Virginia and sometimes infects domestic animals like dogs and cats. Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is lethal if proper medical care is not given following an exposure to the virus. The most common source of exposure to rabies is a bite by a rabid animal. Rabies may also be transmitted by saliva from a rabid animal coming into contact with open wounds,
the mouth, eyes or nose.

Everyone should take common sense measures to protect themselves and their domestic animals from rabies. Pet owners should keep their pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Virginia law requires that all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian, and that vaccinations be kept current. It is important to avoid contact with wild or stray animals, and parents should be sure that
their children are taught to not touch, pet or otherwise handle unknown animals.

Additional steps that can be taken to prevent rabies in people and pets include:

• Do not feed stray animals. Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
• Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
• Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabber if you have concerns about sick or injured wildlife.
• Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
• Do not try to trap or handle stray and wild animals. If a bat is found indoors and may have had contact with someone, do not release it. Call your local animal control officer or health department to determine if the animal should be picked up and tested for rabies.
• Report all bites to people to the local health department for investigation.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal do not panic. Wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your doctor or the health department for further recommendations.

For more information about rabies, https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies
control/.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Alerts the Rappahannock-Rapidan Residents of Rabid bats, cats, racoons and skunks.

July 10, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov

 The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Alerts the Rappahannock-Rapidan Residents of Rabid bats, cats, racoons and skunks.
Public Urged to Avoid Contact with Wild Animals.

WARRENTON, Va. – The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has confirmed a case of rabies involving bats, cats, racoons and skunks. The bats, cats, racoons and skunks were found near the area of Culpeper (1 bat and 1 skunk), in Fauquier (3 racoons and 1 skunk), in Madison (1 skunk) and in Orange (1 cat and 1 skunk). The animals were observed exhibiting unusual behavior during the first quarter of the year. No known exposures to the animals have been reported.

“Protecting our communities from rabies begins with prevention and awareness” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “We urge all residents to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets, ensure their dogs and cats are current on rabies vaccinations, and report any unusual animal behavior to local Animal Control. Taking these simple precautions can protect your family, your pets, and our community from this serious but preventable disease.”

Rabies is commonly found in Virginia in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. In the first quarter of 2026, 117 animals tested positive with rabies in the state. In Culpeper (1 bat and 1 skunk), in Fauquier (3 racoons and 1 skunk), in Madison (1 skunk) and in Orange (1 cat and 1 skunk), 9 rabid animals have been reporter in the first quarter of 2026.

Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is lethal if proper medical care is not given following an exposure to the virus. The most common source of exposure to rabies is a bite by a rabid animal. Rabies may also be transmitted by saliva from a rabid animal coming into contact with open wounds, the mouth, eyes or nose.

Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.

All mammals, including humans, can get rabies. Symptoms may appear as early as a few days or as long as several months after exposure.

Actions you should take to prevent rabies in people and pets include:

  • Be sure that your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
  • Avoid contact with wild animals or stray animals.
  • Do not feed stray animals. Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks. Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources(DWR) or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if you have concerns about sick or injured wildlife.
  • Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
  • Do not try to trap or handle stray and wild animals. If a bat is found indoors and may have had contact with someone, do not release it. Call your local animal control officer or health department to determine if the animal should be picked up and tested for rabies.
  • Report all bites to people to the local health department for investigation.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal do not panic. Wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your doctor or the health department for further recommendations.

For more information, please contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org or visit the Virginia Department of Health’s rabies website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s rabies website.

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Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Isle of Wight

July 16, 2026

Media Contact: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Manager
757-514-4751

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Isle of Wight

SMITHFIELD, Va. -The Isle of Wight County Health Department is alerting the public that a feral cat that had been in the area of the 200 block of Turnberry Road tested positive for rabies. After a resident took it in because of its poor health, the cat was humanely euthanized, and testing confirmed rabies. Anyone who may have come in contact with the feral cat should contact the Isle of Wight County Health Department as soon as possible to discuss potential rabies exposure.

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them. The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment are critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends that Isle of Wight County residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Isle of Wight County Animal Control at 757-365-6318 or the Isle of Wight County Health Department at 757-279-3078.
  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.
  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Isle of Wight Animal Control, or the Isle of Wight Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
  • Confine your pets to your property.
  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Isle of Wight County Health Department at 757-279-3078, Isle of Wight County Animal Control at 757-365-6318, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 

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New River Health District Hosting Mid-Summer Family Fun Fest Event

July 10, 2026
Media Contact: Noelle Bissell, M.D., health director, 540-585-3300

New River Health District Hosting Mid-Summer Family Fun Fest Event

PULASKI, Va. – The New River Health District (NRHD) will host its first Mid-Summer Family Fun Fest event on Friday, July 17 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Pulaski County Middle School, 4396 Lee Highway in Pulaski.

The NRHD is partnering with other local agencies and organizations to offer the community a one-stop shop to learn more about available programs and services and enjoy a day of fun. Services to be offered include:

  • FREE rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats. Dogs must be leashed and cats must be in carriers. Pets must remain under owners’ control.
  • Back-to-school immunizations billed to insurance and a limited supply of free vaccines for the uninsured.
  • School physicals billed to insurance or at a low rate for same day payment.
  • Sports physicals available for $40 each.
  • FREE lunch including sandwiches, chips, fruit, dessert, and a beverage.
  • Lots of giveaways and activities.

In addition to partnering organizations, the NRHD will have tables set up for each of its major programs, along with giveaways for people that stop by. Participants will have a chance to learn more about the following resources:

  • Community Outreach: Learn how NRHD can provide health education and information at your next work or community event.
  • Environmental Health Food Safety Program: Learn about safe food preparation and storage, as well as how restaurant inspections are performed by NRHD.
  • Environmental Health Rabies Program: Hear how to assess your family’s risk of exposure to rabies.
  • Environmental Health Septic and Well Services: Discover how systems operate and what you can do to ensure yours is well maintained.
  • Emergency Preparedness and Response Programs: Get tips to ensure your loved ones are ready for natural disasters and other response events.
  • Immunizations: Get required back-to-school vaccinations.
  • Resource Mothers and BabyCare Services: Information for eligible pregnant and parenting women.
  • Rise Above Program: Hear how this program helps individuals at-risk for and with a history of substance use can get assistance and a path toward recovery.
  • Physicals: For those seeking required school and sports physicals.
  • Summer Safety: Learn how to protect yourself from the sun, the extreme heat and more.
  • Ticks: Get information on how to identify various ticks and how to protect yourself from them.
  • Vital Records: See how to request birth, death, marriage and divorce records.
  • WIC Services: Learn if you are eligible for the nutrition education and supplement program.

The NRHD wanted to offer community members of all ages a chance to connect with the wonderful programs and services available to support them, no matter where they are in life. This event offers programs and activities for young children through older adults, families and single individuals, as well as those with pets.

Information and services will be available from the following partnering agencies:

  • Imagination Library of Montgomery County
  • Pulaski Free Clinic
  • NRV Recovery Ecosystem
  • Pulaski County Office of Prevention and Recovery
  • New River Valley Agency on Aging
  • Department of Aging and Rehabilitation Services
  • YMCA of Pulaski
  • New River Community Action – CHIP
  • Pulaski County Library System
  • New River Valley Senior Services and Pulaski Area Transit
  • New River Community Action
  • Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley
  • Virginia Tech Public Health
  • UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center

“We are all about meeting people where they are. We want our community to get to know us and all that we can offer by helping folks access programs and services that are here to support them,” said Noelle Bissell M.D., New River Health District director. “Whether it is difficult to take time away from work to take your child for back-to-school shots, or you just aren’t sure what programs are available to you, we want people to take advantage of this opportunity. We are bringing a lot of those resources and programs together at a time when we hope people can come and join us.”

The other goal of the event is to reinforce a sense of community – community between individuals – and also the sense of community where so many agencies and organizations are coming together to make themselves available to their fellow community members. “We want folks to come by, see what it is all about, share a meal, and feel valued and appreciated as a member of the NRV community,” said Dr. Bissell.

For more information, please contact the New River Health District at 540-585-3300 or visit the health district Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NewRiverHealthDistrict.

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

 

June 24, 2026

Media Contact: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Manager, 757-514-4751

 

Feral Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, Va. – The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a feral cat tested positive for rabies. The cat was adopted by a concerned member of the public residing in the 100 block of Cove Point Drive. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the cat was humanely euthanized and tested for rabies.

 

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them.   The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment are critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

 

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends Suffolk residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

 

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855 or the Suffolk Health Department at 757- 514-4751.

 

  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.

 

  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.

 

  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Suffolk Animal Control, or the Suffolk Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.

 

  • Confine your pets to your property.

 

  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

 

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Suffolk Health Department at 757-514-4751, Suffolk Animal Control at 757- 514-7855, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Fox Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

June 19, 2026

Media Contact: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Manager, 757-514-4751

 

Fox Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, Va.– The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a fox tested positive for rabies. The fox was captured in the 200 block of Beechwood Drive by Suffolk Animal Control. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the fox was humanely euthanized and tested for rabies.

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them.   The infected animal’s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment is critical. Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies, and without preventive treatment, by the time someone develops symptoms of rabies, the disease is fatal in almost 100% of cases. The disease is also fatal in unvaccinated infected domestic dogs and cats.  Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends Suffolk residents protect their families and their pets from rabies.

  • If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855 or the Suffolk Health Department at 757- 514-4751.
  • Seek prompt medical treatment for any animal bite to ensure timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
  • Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, cats and dogs.
  • Ensure all pet dogs, cats and ferrets have current rabies vaccinations. Please consult your veterinarian, Suffolk Animal Control, or the Suffolk Health Department if you have any questions about pet vaccinations.
  • Confine your pets to your property.
  • Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of four months to be vaccinated, against rabies. For more information on rabies, contact the Suffolk Health Department at 757-514-4751, Suffolk Animal Control at 757-514-7855, or visit the Virginia Department of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 

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Central Shenandoah Health District Reports Rabid Raccoon in Waynesboro

June 15, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Reports Rabid Raccoon in Waynesboro

WAYNESBORO, Va. – The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) is notifying the community that a raccoon found near the vicinity of Nottingham Lane in Waynesboro tested positive for rabies on June 12, 2026. At this time, officials are seeking information about any possible human or animal exposures linked to this rabid animal.

The racoon was collected and euthanized due to injuries, which may indicate a recent encounter with another animal.

“While humans might know not to approach wild animals, it’s a different story for pets,” said Jason Weakley, the environmental health manager at CSHD. “Keeping your cats and dogs up to date on their rabies vaccination helps protect them from the virus. If your pet is attacked or bitten by a wild animal, be sure to report it to your local health department or animal control authorities. If your pet has unexplained wounds or injuries, please have them checked by your veterinarian.”

Anyone having information regarding any potential exposure to this animal via a bite, scratch or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose or mouth should contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department Environmental Health Office at (540) 332-7830. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal.

Central Shenandoah Health District reminds all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

  • Do not feed stray animals.
  • Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks.
  • Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
  • Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.
  • Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
  • Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. If you see a wild animal that appears to be ill, injured or orphaned, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
  • Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens and blocking openings in attics, cellars and porches.
  • Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids

Rabies is linked to a virus that attacks the nervous system and can be deadly if not properly treated. If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your healthcare provider or the Health Department.

For more information about rabies, visit the VDH Rabies webpage.

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