City of Falls Church Issues Rabies Alert

The City of Falls Church has issued a rabies alert, after a rabid raccoon was euthanized by the police last week after an altercation with two dogs in the 100 block of E. Jefferson Street. Here’s more about the alert, from the City:

The Animal Warden says the raccoon tested positive for rabies. The dogs are receiving treatment.

The Fairfax County Health District that encompasses the City has noted a spike in rabid raccoons. Most of the raccoons in the abundant population are healthy. If a raccoon or any wild animal appears to be sick or does not move away when near humans, please contact City police at 703-248-5053 (TTY 711).

Rabies is a preventable viral disease of mammals most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. It is a myth that raccoons seen in the daytime are sick. It is not unusual to see raccoons during the day this time of year when the females are weaning their young.

The community should make sure their dogs and cats are currently inoculated for rabies. It is not advisable to let cats roam freely. Also, it is against state law to feed any wildlife as it encourages domestication in wild animals and can spread disease.

Please contact the City of Falls Church Police if you need information or assistance: 703 241-5053 (TTY 711).

PHOTO: Patch archive photo of raccoon (NOT raccoon mentioned in story)