Tag: rabies

Central Virginia Health District Alerts Thaxton Residents of Rabid Cat

September 16, 2026
Media Contact: Kim Foster, kimberlee.foster@vdh.virginia.gov

Central Virginia Health District Alerts Thaxton Residents of Rabid Cat
Public Urged to Avoid Contact with Stray Animals

THAXTON, Va. – The Central Virginia Health District has confirmed a case of rabies involving a stray kitten. The kitten was found near the area of Willowridge Drive in Thaxton. The kitten was observed exhibiting unusual behavior on September 10, 2026. Three people who were exposed to the animal are receiving post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies.

The health department advises the public to be cautious of stray animals. Please report any bites or scratches from stray animals to the health department and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Rabies is commonly found in Virginia in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. These wild animals may transmit rabies to domestic animals.  In Virginia rabies is more often reported in cats than in any other domestic animal. Through June of this year 332 animals, including 29 cats, tested positive with rabies throughout the state. In Bedford County, 6 rabid animals have been reported so far in 2026.  This is the first domestic animal identified with rabies in Bedford County this year.

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 Central Health District at AskCVHD@vdh.virginia.gov or visit the Virginia Department of Health’s rabies website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s rabies website.

September 11, 2026
Media Contact: Brenden Rivenbark, Brenden.rivenbark@vdh.virginia.gov

Cat Tests Positive for Rabies Virus in Gloucester County
Public Exposed to Cat Advised to Seek Treatment

SALUDA, Va. – A feral cat found on September 4 on Maryus Road in Gloucester County has tested positive for the rabies virus. Anyone who handled the cat or has information regarding any exposure to this animal (bite, scratch or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, mouth) should contact the Gloucester County Health Department at 804-693-6130. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet or other animals and the rabid animal.

This incident is a reminder that rabies is present in Virginia wildlife such as bats, raccoons, foxes and skunks which can sometimes transmit the virus to domestic animals like dogs and cats. Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is fatal 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.

The Three Rivers Health District would like to remind all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

•If your pet and/or livestock has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, check for injuries and contact your local animal control office.
•Seek medical treatment promptly for any animal bite to ensure appropriate and timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
•Do not approach wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, or skunks. If you think a wild animal needs help, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources at 804-367-1000 or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
•Bring stray domestic animals, especially if they appear ill or injured, to the attention of local animal control authorities. If you think a stray animal needs help, contact your local animal control office for guidance.
•Have your veterinarian vaccinate your dogs, cats, ferrets, and selected livestock. Keep the vaccinations up to date. State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of 4 months to be vaccinated against rabies.
•Confine your pets and livestock to your property.
•Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

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 healthcare provider or the health department for further recommendations.
For more information about rabies, visit:  VDH Rabies Control.

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Cat Tests Positive for Rabies Virus in Lancaster County

September 10, 2026
Media Contact: Brenden Rivenbark, Brenden.rivenbark@vdh.virginia.gov

                                                                        Cat Tests Positive for Rabies Virus in Lancaster County
                                                                                      Public Exposed to Cat Advised to Seek Treatment

SALUDA, Va. – A feral cat found on September 3 on Iberis Road in Lancaster County has tested positive for the rabies virus. Anyone who handled the cat or has information regarding any exposure to this animal (bite, scratch or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, mouth) should contact the Lancaster County Health Department at 804-462-9919. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet or other animals and the rabid animal.

This incident is a reminder that rabies is present in Virginia wildlife such as bats, raccoons, foxes and skunks which can sometimes transmit the virus to domestic animals like dogs and cats. Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and is fatal 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.

The Three Rivers Health District would like to remind all residents to follow these important rabies prevention guidelines:

• If your pet and/or livestock has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, check for injuries and contact your local animal control office.
• Seek medical treatment promptly for any animal bite to ensure appropriate and timely evaluation and treatment. All animal exposures must be taken seriously.
• Do not approach wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes, or skunks. If you think a wild animal needs help, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources at 804-367-1000 or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
• Bring stray domestic animals, especially if they appear ill or injured, to the attention of local animal control authorities. If you think a stray animal needs help, contact your local animal control office for guidance.
• Have your veterinarian vaccinate your dogs, cats, ferrets, and selected livestock. Keep the vaccinations up to date. State law requires all dogs and cats over the age of 4 months to be vaccinated against rabies.
• Confine your pets and livestock to your property.
• Securely seal garbage containers with lids.

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 healthcare provider or the health department for further recommendations.
For more information about rabies, visit: VDH Rabies Control.
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Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

September 10, 2026

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

Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk

SUFFOLK, VA.-The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a raccoon tested positive for rabies. The raccoon was picked up by a concerned member of the public driving through the 3000 block of Lake Cohoon Road. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the raccoon 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 infected domestic dogs and cats that have not been vaccinated.  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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Richmond City Health District Reports Rabies in Raccoon

August 21, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

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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