ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ) – A raccoon collected on Friday, January 23, 2026, tested positive for rabies near Thirlane Rd. and Connie Dr. in northern Roanoke County, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
Health officials say rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It’s preventable through pets as long as they’re vaccinated. But, it’s fatal to both animals and humans if left untreated.
According to VDH, exposure to rabies is considered:
- Any time a bite or scratch (or other circumstance) allows saliva or central nervous system tissue from a potentially rabid animal to enter an open, fresh wound.
- When rabid tissue enters a mucous membrane via the eye, mouth, or nose.
The Code of Virginia §3.2-6521 requires pet owners to maintain current rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats aged four months and older, VDH says…