Rabid Fox Captured at Burke Area Park

A rabid fox captured this week near the South Run Recreational facility has authorities looking for anyone who may have come into contact with a fox recently in that area.

Animal Control Officers responded to the area regarding a fox acting strangely Wednesday evening in the area of South Run and the Burke Lake Trail, according to Fairfax County Police.

“A young fox reportedly ran towards people in the wooded area adjacent to the trail, and ran towards a dog and his owner,” according to FCPD. “The owner fell, lost his hat and the fox was distracted by the hat, enabling the man and dog to flee.”

Officers safely located and euthanized the fox, which was reportedly showing clear signs of rabies. Tested proved positive for rabies, according to police.

The fox was found in the same area where a woman was injured by a rabid raccoon June 10.

More: Raccoon Suspected in Park Attack Is Captured

Out of an abundance of caution, health and animal control officials are asking anyone who may have had contact with a fox in this area to contact Bryant Bullock, Environmental Health, 571-274-2296.

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/