A raccoon found in the area of Water Fowl Drive in the Lakes at Dare neighborhood in York County has tested positive for the rabies virus.
The sick raccoon was found in a yard with a dog; it was sent to Richmond for testing where it was found to have the virus.
Anyone who was exposed to the animal or had pets exposed to it should contact the Health Department at 757-594-7340. After hours, contact Animal Control at 757-890-3601.
Rabies is a fatal disease but is preventable. It is carried by mammals and has been on the Peninsula since the mid-1980s. To prevent rabies, owners should have pets vaccinated, report any animal rabies exposures to their doctor and the local health department, and not feed wild animals.
