ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — The Virginia Department of Health reports three cases of rabies have been recorded in wildlife in recent days in the Roanoke Region.
Those cases were found in:
- Skunk – Catlett Drive, Salem
- Feral Kitten – Green Acres Drive, Masons Cove area of Roanoke County
- Raccoon – Lee Highway and Blue Ridge Turnpike, Mill Creek area of Botetourt County
Rabies is not uncommon in Virginia, but having three cases in one region in a short period of time does not happen very often. Raccoons, skunks, and foxes are the most common wildlife carriers.
The disease is passed on to humans and other animals through bites or contact with infected saliva, blood, or body fluids. It must be treated before symptoms start, otherwise it is almost always fatal.
If you believe you have been exposed to rabies, call your doctor immediately. If your pet has been exposed, call your veterinarian. In either case, notify your local health department.
Get your pets vaccinated against rabies to provide them protection. If you happen upon an animal behaving strangely, report it to your local health department and your local animal control agency.