Rabid Raccoon Found On Chincoteague

According to the Accomack Sheriff's Office, on Thursday, October 3, a laborator confirmed rabid raccoon was found roaming Cropper Street and Church Street on Chincoteague and was immediately euthanized.

Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus that is present in the saliva of infected animals. 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 raccoons, and can be found in other animals including foxes, skunks, cats and bats.

To protect yourself, officials advise keep all pets vaccination current, keep your pets on your own property, avoid contact with stray or unknown pets and report all bites to your local Health Department.

In Accomack, the number is 824-5616. You can also call the Sheriff's office at 787-1311.
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