News Flash

NORFOLK, VA – A sick raccoon collected in Norfolk has tested positive for rabies.  The raccoon was turned over by a resident on Tuesday, July 10, 2018 to a wildlife rehabilitator who works for Evelyn’s Wildlife Refuge. The animal became progressively sicker over the next week and was humanely euthanized.  At this time, no animal to human exposures are known to be associated with this animal; however representatives from the Norfolk Department of Public Health would like to talk with the individual who dropped off the raccoon on July 10th to assess potential risk of exposure. This woman is reported to be a Norfolk resident and drives a green Kia Soul. If you are this individual, please contact Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.

It is important to note that, in the event of any exposure, all animal bites and scratches should be reported to local health departments. “Rabies is a deadly virus and area residents are reminded not to handle, touch, or take in stray or wild animals,” said Norman Grefe, Environmental Health Manager, Sr. 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.