Central Shenandoah Health District Shares Rabies Safety Tips

September 28, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

Central Shenandoah Health District Shares Rabies Safety Tips
World Rabies Day is September 28

STAUNTON, Va. – World Rabies Day is September 28. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) wants to remind you to avoid contact with stray and wild animals, and to get your dogs and cats vaccinated. Even though rabies is nearly 100% fatal, it is highly preventable.

Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Health Advisory warning of the increase in human exposures to rabid or possibly rabid animals. This Rabies Awareness Week, it is important to highlight what actions can be taken to protect yourself and your pets from this disease.

Rabies is commonly found in Virginia in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. In 2025, 332 animals tested positive with rabies in Virginia. CSHD has had seven animals test positive for rabies so far in 2026.

“Vaccinating your pets against rabies protects both them and you from the virus,” said Jason Weakley, environmental health manager for CSHD. “Keep in mind that wild animals are not vaccinated, and you should always keep your distance from them. Report any animal bites to your local health department. If you think a wild animal needs help, call the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.”

Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.

To protect yourself and your animals from rabies:

Do not feed stray animals. Report them to local animal control authorities by calling 540-332-3842.
Avoid wild animals, especially raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks. Wild animals are not pets.
Do not handle sick, injured or dead animals. Instead, report these animals to the Department of Wildlife Resources. Permitted wildlife rehabilitators are another option.
Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
Keep wild animals out of your home by capping chimneys with screens. Block openings in attics, cellars and porches. Ensure trash cans have tight fitting lids.
Make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies and their shots are up to date. By law, all dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies.
Talk with your healthcare provider before traveling overseas to see if rabies vaccinations are recommended.

Anyone potentially exposed to a rabid animal should notify their healthcare provider immediately. Exposure includes any bites, scratches or contact with saliva.

If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, do not panic. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water to decrease the chance of infection. Contact your healthcare provider or the Central Shenandoah Health District for further recommendations.

If your pet is attacked or bitten by an animal, contact Staunton Animal Control at 540-332-3842 or your local health department office.

For more information about rabies, visit the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control webpage.

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