Rabid racoon found in Onancock

On Wednesday,  October 29,  a laboratory confirmed a rabid raccoon was found roaming Hill Street in Onancock which was immediately euthanized.

This alert is a reminder that we must all keep a heightened sense of awareness regarding this deadly disease.

Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that is present in the saliva of infected animals.  Rabies is spread when the virus enters a fresh open wound, or through exposure of a mucous membrane of the nose, eye or mouth.  Rabies is now endemic in our raccoon population with spillover into other species.  High risk species include raccoons, foxes, skunks, cats and bats.

If a wild or stray animal attacks you, immediately wash the wound with warm soapy water and/or alcohol, then notify the health department and your physician.    If your pet is attacked, immediately notify the Health Department and call your veterinarian.  If you handle your pet after an encounter, please wear gloves and immediately wash your hands with warm soapy water and/or alcohol.

To contact the  Accomack County Health Department call 757-787-5886 weekdays and 757-302-4300 nights and weekends.   You can also contact the Accomack County Sheriff’s Department at 757-787-1131.

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