Raccoon in Newport News tests positive for rabies

Peninsula Health District officials said today that a raccoon caught in Newport News has tested positive for rabies.

A dog killed the raccoon in the area of Blacksmythe Lane and Manor Place on Friday, said Dave Jordan, Environmental Health Manager for the district.

Health officials got the test results late yesterday, he said. An environmental health specialist is in the neighborhood today notifying residents and checking for anyone who may have been exposed to the animal.

The dog that killed the raccoon had been vaccinated against rabies, Jordan said.

The raccoon marked the 18th animal to test positive for rabies this year in the district, Jordan said. Officials expect to see 20 to 25 animals test positive each year.

Anyone who believes they have been exposed to the raccoon or any other animal suspected of having rabies should call the Peninsula Health District’s Newport News Office at (757) 594-7340.