BOTETOURT COUNTY, Va. – The Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts is warning residents after a skunk recently tested positive for rabies in Botetourt County.
Officials say the skunk was found on Cook Avenue in Cloverdale, the southern portion of the county.
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Botetourt County Animal Control captured the animal on Friday, Aug. 11.
Rabies, a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system, can be contracted from bites by rabid animals. While vaccine treatments can prevent domestic animals from being infected, rabies can be deadly for both humans and animals if left untreated.
As a reminder, pet owners are required by law to maintain up-to-date vaccinations for dogs and cats that are four months and older.
To help prevent the spread, residents are urged to:
- Refrain from touching animals that you’re unfamiliar with
- Ensure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are current
- Report animals that are behaving unusually
- Contact your doctor and the local health department if you believe you’ve been exposed to rabies, or your veterinarian and local animal control if your pet is exposed to an animal with rabies
Anyone who knows of a person or animal who made contact with this skunk is asked to contact the Roanoke City Alleghany Highlands District or the Botetourt County Animal Control.