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Raccoon tests positive for rabies in Newport News

Posted at 4:55 PM, Dec 05, 2014
and last updated 2014-12-05 16:55:04-05

A raccoon in the Kensington Drive area of Newport News has tested positive for the rabies virus, according to the Peninsula Health District.

The raccoon was killed by a dog. The raccoon was tested for the rabies virus and found to be positive.

Anyone who may have been exposed to this animal is asked to contact the Health Department at 757-594-7340.

The District would like to remind all citizens to follow these four important rabies prevention guidelines:

1. Vaccinate your pets.
2. Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.
3. Enjoy wildlife from a distance – do not feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your premises.
4. Do not feed your pets outside, leave trash uncovered, or do anything that may attract wild animals to your property.