Staunton: Raccoon tests positive for rabies, found near Thornrose Cemetery

A raccoon in Staunton tested positive for rabies, according to the Virginia Department of Health.

The raccoon was collected on Monday from a residential area west of Thornrose Cemetery, between Gypsy Hill Park and West Beverley Street.

There are currently no known human exposures to the raccoon.

“While this raccoon no longer presents a threat, it is a reminder to get your pets vaccinated for rabies and to keep their vaccinations up to date,” says Jason Weakley, environmental health manager at Central Shenandoah Health District. “Protecting animals from rabies protects both them and the people around them.”

Anyone having information regarding any potential exposure to this animal via a bite, scratch or contact with saliva in an open wound or through the eyes, nose or mouth should contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department at (540) 332-7830.

Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal.

Rabies is linked to a virus that attacks the nervous system and can be deadly if not properly treated. If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, wash the wound thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact animal control, your healthcare provider or the health department.

For more information about rabies, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/

CSHD: Rabies prevention guidelines

• Do not feed stray animals.
• Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks.
• Feed your pets indoors, and do not let them wander.
• Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.
• Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and pets they are not familiar with.
• Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals.
• If you see a wild animal that appears to be ill, injured or orphaned, contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
• Keep wild animals out of homes by capping chimneys with screens, and block openings in attics, cellars and porches.
• Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.