EASTERN SHORE RESIDENTS REMINDED TO BEWARE OF RABIES
On August 31, 2018 a sick and injured cat and was found among the rocks at Guard Shore in Bloxom, Virginia and reported to the Accomack County Health Department. The cat was described as a female grey tabby with tricolor stripes (photo of the actual cat). The cat was tested for rabies at the state laboratory in Richmond, Virginia and those results confirmed this cat was infected with rabies.
Given the remote location this cat was found and its poor condition, it is possible that this cat may have been transported there by someone from another location. If you, your family member or your pets had any potential contact with this cat in any location, please contact the Accomack County Health Department immediately at 757-787-5886.
Rabies is a FATAL disease caused by a virus that is present in the saliva of infected mammals.
Rabies is spread when the virus enters a fresh open wound, or through exposure of a mucous membrane of the nose, eye, or mouth. Rabies is endemic in our raccoon population with spill over into other species. High risk species include raccoons, foxes, skunks, bats and unvaccinated cats.
This incident is another reminder that residents of the Eastern Shore must keep a heightened sense of awareness of this deadly disease and always be wary of wild, stray and unvaccinated animals. To protect yourselves, your families, and your own pets he Eastern Shore Health District recommends that everyone make sure all of your own pets and valuable livestock are up to date on rabies vaccinations.
Keep your pets confined to your own property. Avoid contact with wild, stray or unknown cats, dogs, and wildlife. If you do get bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and plenty of water and notify your doctor as soon as possible.
Always report all animal bites to the local health department and/or your local Sheriff’s department:
Accomack County Health Department 757-787-5880
Accomack Sheriff’s Office 757-787-1131Northampton County Health Department 757-442-6228
Northampton Sheriff’s Office 757-678-0458
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