Rabid raccoon found in Hopewell, VDH investigating possible exposures

HOPEWELL, Va. (WRIC) -- A raccoon found in Hopewell has tested positive for rabies, according to Virginia health officials, who are searching for information on possible exposures.

A raccoon located near Norton Street in the city of Hopewell has tested positive for the rabies virus, according to a Jan. 16 press release from the Virginia Department of Health's (VDH) Crater Health District.

State health officials are asking for information on any exposures those in the surrounding area may have had to this raccoon.

"Please notify public health officials or animal control immediately if you live near Norton Street and think you or your pet(s) had contact with the infected raccoon," said Crater Health District director Alton Hart, Jr. in the release. "The community's safety is our priority."

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A rabies exposure includes things like a bite or a scratch, as well as contact with saliva on an open wound or the eyes, nose or mouth. If you know anything about such an exposure, you are asked to contact the Crater Health District's Environmental Health Office at 804-863-1652.

State health officials strongly encourage residents take these steps to prevent rabies exposures:

• Vaccinate all dogs, cats and ferrets for rabies and keep those vaccinations up-to-date
• Avoid contact with wild animals, as well as stray cats and dogs
• Report any stray animals to your local animal control agency
• Enjoy wildlife from a distance. Do not feed wild animals or strays and do not encourage them to visit your property.

Hopewell residents can report a stray and/or suspicious animal by calling the Hopewell Animal Services Unit at 804-541-2204.

For more information on rabies and how to keep your family safe, click here.