The Communicable Disease Program works in conjunction with the Environmental Health Program in providing tracking, follow-up and guidance/referrals in cases involving possible exposure(s) to the rabies virus through an animal bite or exposure.

Service

The Environmental Health Program investigates and follows up on reported animal bites and rabies exposures.  If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal or your pet has been exposed to a rabies suspect animal such as raccoons, foxes, skunks, opossums, groundhogs, feral cats and more, contact our office at the numbers listed below.  After hours, contact your local police department or dial 911 for further assistance.


If you are at high risk for exposure to rabies, pre-exposure vaccination is available. 

Who can get this service?

•    These services are available to any Worcester County resident.

Where is this service provided?

•    Isle of Wight Center
•    Snow Hill Health Center

How much does this service cost?

There is no charge for an animal bite or rabies exposure investigation.
There is a charge for pre – exposure vaccination, call for current fee. 
If post exposure vaccination is required, costs vary. Financial assistance, if eligible, is available for the cost of the post exposure vaccination provided by the health department. However, fees imposed by the providers office which administers the vaccine or the cost of vaccine obtained elsewhere are the sole responsibility of the person receiving the vaccine.

This service is provided by the Nursing Program together with the Environmental Health Program.