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West Virginia Animal Rabies Surveillance Report: JANUARY 1 – AUGUST 6, 2026
The purpose of this report is to share descriptive surveillance data related to animal rabies activity with public health partners in West Virginia. All information in this report is considered provisional. View full report: All Citizens are also being reminded to make sure your animals are currently vaccinated against rabies and to avoid contact with wildlife!
Health Department
Aug 71 min read


08/04/26 Public Health Education Topic: Listeria
Per CDC: Key points Listeria are bacteria (germs) that can contaminate many foods. People who eat those foods can get infected with the bacteria. Listeria infection is rare, but serious. The good news is that you can take steps to prevent infection. People at risk Listeria infection can be especially harmful for some people, including Pregnant women Newborns Adults aged 65 or older People with weakened immune systems Other people can be infected with Listeria, but they rarely
Health Department
Aug 41 min read


07/31/26 Public Health Education Topic: Legionella
Per CDC Key points Legionnaires' disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. Certain people are at increased risk for this infection. Legionnaires' disease is treatable with antibiotics. People can get Legionnaires' disease by breathing in mist containing Legionella bacteria. In general, it isn't spread person to person. Know if you’re at risk of Legionnaires’ disease and talk to your healthcare provider if you're concerned. Types Legionella most com
Health Department
Jul 312 min read


07/28/26 Public Health Education Topic: Giardia
Per CDC Key points Giardia is a tiny parasite (germ) that causes diarrhea. Giardia can spread easily from one person to another or through water, food, surfaces, or objects. A healthcare provider can prescribe medicine to treat illness caused by Giardia. Symptoms Symptoms usually begin by having diarrhea 2 to 5 times per day and feeling more and more tired. Short-term symptoms include: Diarrhea Gas Smelly, greasy poop that can float Stomach cramps or pain Upset stomach or nau
Health Department
Jul 281 min read


07/24/26 Public Health Education Topic: Foodborne/Waterborne Outbreaks
Per CDC How Foodborne Outbreaks Happen What to know Contamination of food can happen at any point along the food production chain. This contamination can lead to foodborne illness and outbreaks. People in the food production chain and at home can take steps to keep food safe, like inspecting food and cooking food thoroughly. What you can do Although contamination can occur at any point during the food production chain, the people involved at each point work to reduce this ris
Health Department
Jul 242 min read


07/21/26 Public Health Education Topic: Foodborne/Waterborne Disease and Illness
Per CDC & WV OEPS: ABOUT Enteric Diseases (Food and Waterborne Illness) Foodborne disease is caused by consuming contaminated foods or beverages. There are many different foodborne infections, which cause an estimated 48 million illnesses and 3,000 deaths each year in the United States. The onset of symptoms may occur within minutes to weeks and often presents itself as flu-like symptoms, as the ill person may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever.
Health Department
Jul 212 min read