Rabies Exposures Possible After Attacks By Cat In Rose Hill

ROSE HILL, VA — The Fairfax County Health Department is warning residents of a potential rabies exposure involving an aggressive cat in the Rose Hill area.

A cat spotted in the 6000 block of Leewood Drive, Alexandria was confirmed to have rabies, according to the health department. The small brown tabby cat was described as aggressive during the attacks, which were reportedly unprovoked.

Two attacks happened in the 6000 block of Leewood Drive, and the third happened in the 5000 block of Greenhaven Place, Alexandria. The first incident happened Oct. 29, and the others happened on Oct. 30.

The health department believes the cat may have had contact with other people or pets. Anyone who believes they were bitten and scratched by the cat are urged to contact the health department rabies program at 703-246-6004. The cat is a young female and is spayed. Because the cat is spayed, the cat may have had an owner.

Rabies spreads when an infected animal's saliva or central nervous tissue enters an open wound, mouth, nose or eyes. The infection is caused by a virus and can spread to mammal wildlife such as foxes, raccoons, skunks and bats as well as domestic pets like cats and dogs. People can get infected when bitten or scratched by an infected animal.

There have been 19 animals diagnosed with rabies so far in Fairfax County this year. Animals infected with rabies may act aggressive, while wildlife may act docile. Signs can include drooling, staggering or stumbling when moving, or becoming paralyzed. Rabid animals or bites should be reported to Fairfax County Animal Protection Police at 703-691-2131.

When bitten or scratched, the health department urges immediate washing of the wound with soap and water before seeking medical attention. The rabies vaccine effectively treats rabies when provided in time; otherwise it is fatal to mammals.

Pet owners are encouraged to keep their dogs, cats, ferrets and horses vaccinated against rabies. If a pet is attacked, wash the pet's wound while wearing gloves, contact Animal Protection Services and contact a veterinarian.

More information about response to rabies is provided at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/health/rabies.