THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, November 18, 1994 TAG: 9411170211
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 20 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: STAFF REPORT
LENGTH: Short : 37 lines
Another rabies case has been confirmed in Virginia Beach, the 14th so far in 1994.
Like most of the others reported this year, the latest incident involved a rabid raccoon fighting with a pet dog. The animal lived on Thoroughgood Drive in the Thoroughgood area, marking the fifth case to occur north of the toll road in recent months.
Before August, most of the incidents had been confined to the city's rural southern areas. Only eight cases of rabies were reported last year. They are part of a growing trend that began in August 1992 when the first case of rabies in the city's history was recorded.
The dog involved in the latest attack was protected by a rabies vaccination and will be placed under home confinement and observation for 90 days.
The Virginia Beach Health Department strongly recommends that Virginia Beach residents take the following steps to prevent families and pets from exposure to rabies.
Report all animal bites to the Animal Control Bureau at 427-5616 or the Virginia Beach Health Department at 491-5940.
Do not approach wild or stray animals, especially raccoons, foxes, skunks and cats.
Ensure all pet dogs and cats have a current rabies vaccination. If you have questions, consult your veterinarian or the local health department.
Confine your pets to your property.
KEYWORDS: RABIES by CNB