Raccoon tests positive for rabies

YORK, Va. (WAVY) - A raccoon in York County, Va. tested positive for the rabies virus.

The Peninsula Health District wants anyone who may have had any contact with the animal to contact them.

The raccoon was found in the area of Quantico Loop.

If you or your pet was exposed to the rabid animal, call the Newport News Health Department at 757-594-7340. After hours, you can call Animal Control at 757-890-3601.

Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease that is carried by mammals and has been in the wild animal population on the Peninsula since the mid 1980's.

The District would like to remind all citizens to follow these three important rabies prevention guidelines:

1. Vaccinate your pets.

2. Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.

3. Enjoy wildlife from a distance - don't feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your premises.