RABIES
Rabid fox warning issued after animal control officer attacked in Galax
GALAX, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District issued a warning in the Galax area due to a fox that tested positive for rabies. On Wednesday, a gray fox attacked an Animal Control Officer on the 900 block of West Stuart Drive in Galax. The fox recently fought with other animals indicated by hair in its teeth, creating additional disease reservoirs that may become rabid in the following months. Health officials warn that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear. If any person or anyone’s pets have been in contact with the gray fox, you’re asked to contact the Galax Health Department at 276-236-6127.
VDH issues warning after rabid raccoon found in Virginia city
Someone’s pet was exposed to a rabid raccoon on Friday, according to the Virginia Department of Health. On Friday, a raccoon found in Staunton, Virginia, was submitted for rabies testing after a suspected encounter with a pet. The raccoon tested positive for rabies and while it no longer poses a threat, any person or animal that may have been exposed to the raccoon’s saliva would be considered a potential exposure and should receive medical evaluation. Rabies is deadly to animals and humans once symptoms begin, but can be prevented in humans if they receive vaccine and medication soon after exposure. VDH has this advice to help prevent the spread of rabies: