Raccoon in Clifton Attack Had Rabies

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- The Fairfax County Health Department has confirmed that a raccoon captured after an incident Thursday in Clifton has tested positive for rabies, the County announced Friday.

The victim has been notified and is receiving medical treatment, the County said.

The man was awakened Thursday morning by a raccoon in his home that bit him; he fought it off and was eventually able to place his foot on the raccoon’s throat until it stopped breathing, the county said in a news release about the incident. He bagged and transported the animal to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter and then sought medical treatment.

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

Rabies is a disease caused by a virus that can infect both people and animals, Animal Control said. People usually get rabies when they are bitten by an animal that is sick with the disease.

Tips from Animal Control

• 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.
• 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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