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Coyote tests positive for rabies in Williamsburg

Posted at 11:14 AM, Mar 19, 2014
and last updated 2014-03-19 11:14:49-04

Williamsburg, Va. – A coyote has tested positive for rabies in Williamsburg, according to the Peninsula Health District.

The Peninsula Health District would like to notify the residents in the area of Cedar Grove Cemetery, Henry Street, and South England Street in the Williamsburg City limits.

Anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal (bite, scratch or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose, mouth) is asked to contact the Health Department at Peninsula Health District – Williamsburg Environmental Health Office, (757) 603-4277.

Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal.

After hours, please contact local Animal Control, James City County/Williamsburg Animal Control: 253-1800.

Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease that is carried by mammals and has been in the wild animal population on the Peninsula since the mid 1980s.

The District would like to remind all citizens to follow these three 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 – don’t feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons,
skunks or foxes to visit your premises.