AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – The Central Shenandoah Health District is notify residents in the Craigsville area of Augusta County that a stray cat found in the Fordwick Lane area has tested positive for the rabies virus.

Communications Specialist Rachel Dumene says the cat no longer poses a threat to the public, but health officials want to remind everyone, and especially pet owners, of the risks of rabies. She added that anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal in the days leading up to Nov. 10 whether it be a bite, scratch, or contact with saliva, should contact the Staunton-Augusta Health Department.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It is almost always fatal, unless preventive treatment is administered before symptoms develop.