A baby raccoon found on Thursday, July 17, near the end of Glass Road and brought to the Severn Yachting Center in Hayes has tested positive for the rabies virus, according to a release from the Three Rivers Health District.
Anyone who handled the raccoon 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 804-693-2445. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal.
This incident is a reminder that rabies is present in Virginia wildlife such as bats, raccoons, foxes and skunks which sometimes infect 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. 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 wit...