January 14, 2022
Media Contact: Norman Grefe, Norfolk Health Department Environmental Health Manager, Norman.Grefe@vdh.virginia.gov, 757-683-2824
Rabid Raccoon Found in Sewells Gardens Neighborhood of Norfolk
NORFOLK, Va. – A raccoon in Norfolk has tested positive for rabies. The sick raccoon was found along the 900 block of South Quail St in the Sewells Gardens neighborhood on January 11, 2022. The raccoon subsequently died and was sent to the Virginia Department of Consolidated Laboratory Services in Richmond for testing. It was reported positive for rabies on January 13, 2022. There are no known human or domestic animal exposures at this time; however if you have been bitten or scratched by a raccoon in this area, please contact the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
It is important to note that all animal bites and scratches should be reported to the local health department. Rabies is a fatal disease, but is preventable if treatment is begun early and completed as recommended by a medical provider. Exposure incidents occurring in the city of Norfolk should be reported to the Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712 or Norfolk Animal Control at 757-664-7387. The following precautions are recommended to reduce the risk of rabies exposure:
- Be sure dogs and cats are up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Keep pets confined to home and yard.
- Keep yards free of food that could attract wild animals.
- Do not handle, touch or take in stray or wild animals.
- Warn adults and children to report any animal bites or scratches.
- Report stray or unvaccinated animals to Animal Control at 757-664-7387.
- Report all animal or human exposures to the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
For further information, please contact the Environmental Health Division of the Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.
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