Two Potential Rabies Cases, Fox Still at Large

Two women in as many days have been treated at Reston Hospital Center after they were bitten by a fox. The fox or foxes involved are still at large.

They were two of the three potential rabies cases in the last 48 hours, according to Fairfax County Animal Control. A Clinton man is being treated after he was bitten by a raccoon.

On Wednesday morning, a woman was running at Riverbend Park when she was bitten by a fox. She is undergoing preventative treatment for rabies. The park has temporarily closed the trail.

On Thursday morning, a woman was checking on her chickens at a home near Riverbend Park when she was confronted and bitten by a fox.

It's unknown whether the fox or foxes are rabid. But, aggressive tendencies are one of the signs of rabies, animal control notes.

Residents should keep their dogs on a leash when walking in public areas.

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.

More information on the rabies virus, exposure prevention tips, and what to do if an animal bites, is available at fairfaxcounty.gov/hd/rabies.