Man Fights Off Raccoon: Fairfax County Resident Awakens to Critter in Home

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- A man fought off a raccoon in his home Thursday morning after he woke up to find the critter in his home, according to Fairfax County officials.

The incident took place Thursday at around 11 a.m. at a home in Clifton, according to county officials. A man reported that he was awakened by a raccoon in his home, Fairfax County Police said.

The man fought off the raccoon and was bitten during the struggle, police said. He was eventually able to place his foot on the raccoon’s throat until it stopped breathing, according to FCPD.

The local resident bagged and transported the animal to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter and then sought medical treatment.

Police say two people were also bit in the Great Falls area this week by a fox or foxes.

Fairfax County Animal Control says they would like to remind residents that it is unknown, at present, whether or not the fox/foxes are rabid, however aggressive tendencies such as those exhibited in these cases are one of the signs of rabies. They would also like to remind residents to keep their dogs on a leash when walking in public areas.

Police did not say whether the raccoon was rabid.

Rabies is a disease caused by a virus that can infect both people and animals, FCPD points out. People usually get rabies when they are bitten by an animal that is sick with the disease. FCPD points out to protect yourself and your family from rabies: stay away from wild animals and be sure pets are vaccinated against rabies every year.

If bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention right away, police say.

In Fairfax County, residents should also immediately report animal bites, as well as sick or injured animals, to Animal Control Services at 703-691-2131/ TTY 703-877-3715. More information on the rabies virus, exposure prevention tips, and what to do if an animal bites, is available: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/rabies/

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