August 9, 2022
Media Contact: Caitlin Hodge, Public Information Officer, (804) 365-4316
Fox Tests Positive for the Rabies Virus for Release
HANOVER, Va. –The Chickahominy Health District would like to notify the residents in the areas surrounding Totopotomoy Creek and Richmond National Battlefield Park in Mechanicsville, VA (this includes areas along Shelton Pointe Drive, the Bluffs at Bell Creek and Avondale subdivisions) that a fox has tested positive for the rabies virus. The fox is deceased.
Potential exposures to a rapid animal include bites, scratches, or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, and/or mouth. Anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal in the days leading up to August 7, 2022 should contact the Hanover Health Department at (804) 365-4313. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal. After hours, please contact Hanover County Animal Control at (804) 365-6140.
Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease carried by mammals that is endemic to the area. The District would like to remind all citizens to follow these three important rabies prevention guidelines:
- Vaccinate your pets.
- Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.
- Enjoy wildlife from a distance – don’t feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, or foxes to visit your premises
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