A skunk found in the area of Eaglescliffe Road in James City County’s Ford’s Colony has tested positive for the rabies virus.
The skunk was found Tuesday after it came into contact with a few dogs from the neighborhood. Both dogs appear to be healthy, though they are now undergoing a 45-day home confinement to ensure they were not infected, said Bob Buchwald, the environmental supervisor for the Williamsburg office of the Peninsula Health District.
No humans came into contact with the skunk.
Anyone who may have been 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.
The Peninsula Health District said in a news release exposure includes bites, scratches, contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose or mouth.
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.
The Peninsula Health District recommends the following steps to prevent rabies:
- Vaccinate your pets.
- Report all bites and scratches from animals to your doctor and the local health department.
- Don’t get too close to wildlife. Don’t feed or encourage raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your home.
- Don’t feed your pets outside, leave trash uncovered or do anything that might attract wild animals to your property.
