Hopewell, Va. (WRIC) — A five-month-old stray kitten in Hopewell has been confirmed to have rabies after biting an individual earlier this week, according to the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Crater District.
On Tuesday, September 10, a stray tabby kitten, characterized by its black, gray, and brown fur, was discovered near a residence on Stonewall Avenue. The kitten, estimated to be approximately five months old, bit a person and subsequently tested positive for rabies. The condition of the bite victim has not been disclosed.
Health officials noted that this incident occurred less than a mile from where a rabid fox was found on August 8. In response, VDH and the City of Hopewell have initiated an area-wide survey to identify any additional potential threats.
VDH officials are urging residents to report any sightings of stray animals and ensure that their pets are up-to-date on vaccinations. “Rabies is a preventable disease. We encourage all pet owners to vaccinate their animals to protect them and the community,” emphasized Toinette Waldon, Environmental Health Manager for the Crater Health District.
Residents of Hopewell are advised to contact the city’s Animal Services Unit at 804-541-2204 to report stray animals
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