Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Frederickburg: Health Advisory

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — A raccoon living near the 900 block of Sylvania Avenue in Fredericksburg tested positive for rabies on Jan. 15, according to the Rappahannock Area Health District.

Although a dog living in the area was exposed to the raccoon, no human exposures have been reported, according to health officials.

“Rabies is a significant public health concern,” said Dr. David C. Rose, interim health director for the Rappahannock Area Health District. "This exposure to a known positive animal serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping your pets vaccinated against rabies and avoiding contact with wild and stray animals, particularly those sick and injured.”

On Monday, RAHD shared the following guidance:

Anyone who has contact with high-risk animals such as foxes, skunks, racoons, feral cats or other wild or stray animals via a bite, scratch or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose, or mouth should contact the Rappahannock Area Health District. Exposures also include direct contact or observed close proximity between your pet and a wild animal. The RAHD can be reached at 540-899-4797 between 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. After hours, for either human or animal exposure concerns, please contact your local animal control office.

RAHD 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 pets they are not familiar with.
• Do not handle sick, injured, or dead animals. If you see a wild animal that appears to be ill, injured or orphaned, contact your local animal control office 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 and your local health department.

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