A raccoon found in Poquoson has tested positive for rabies.
The rabid raccoon was discovered in the 100 block of Little Florida Road, according to a Virginia Department of Health news release.
Health department officials are asking anyone who came into contact with the raccoon – by bite, scratch or contact with saliva by open wound or eyes, nose or mouth – to notify the Peninsula Health District, the release said.
Direct contact between the raccoon and pets should also be reported, the release said.
The health district can be reached at 757-594-7340. After hours, call the Newport News/Poquoson Animal Control at 757-595-7387.
To prevent rabies, the health district recommends vaccinating pets, reporting all bites and scratches to a doctor and health department, and don’t feed or approach wild animals.
