PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — A raccoon found in Patrick County has tested positive for rabies, making it the second confirmed case of the virus in the county within a week, according to the Virginia Department of Health.

Health officials said the raccoon was discovered on June 19 on Stella Road near the intersection of Stella Loop Road in Patrick Springs.

It tested positive for the rabies virus, just three days after a fox found on June 16 in the 500 block of Virginia North Carolina Road in Patrick County also tested positive.

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can spread to humans and animals through bites or saliva entering open wounds or mucous membranes.

Health officials are reminding residents to avoid contact with wild animals and to ensure pets are current on rabies vaccinations.

Authorities urge anyone who may have had contact with the raccoon—or whose pets may have been exposed—to contact the Patrick County Health Department at 276-693-2070.

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