Rabid Cat Found In Gainesville, Prince William County Police Warn

GAINESVILLE, VA — A cat found in Gainesville has tested positive for rabies, prompting Prince William County police to warn residents who may have encountered the animal to seek medical attention and report possible exposure.

The cat was found in the 15500 block of Thoroughfare Road, according to the Prince William County Police Department.

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Police said the animal was known to socialize with other cats, pets and people, raising concerns about possible exposure to the potentially deadly virus.

Other cats have since been contained and are being monitored, police said.

Authorities did not specify when the rabid cat was discovered or whether any people had been bitten or otherwise exposed.

Anyone who believes they or their pets may have had contact with the infected cat should report the incident to Prince William County Animal Services. People who suspect exposure should seek immediate medical attention, police said.

What To Do If You Encounter A Rabid Animal

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, according to the Virginia Department of Health. However, prompt medical treatment after exposure can prevent the disease.

The virus is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites. Exposure can also occur when infected saliva enters an open wound or comes into contact with the eyes or mouth.

The Virginia Department of Health recommends taking the following precautions:

• Avoid unfamiliar animals. Do not approach, pet or attempt to handle stray or wild animals, even if they appear friendly. Rabid animals sometimes behave unusually or seem unusually tame.
• Report suspicious behavior. If an animal appears sick, aggressive, disoriented or otherwise behaves strangely, stay away and contact animal control.
• Wash bites immediately. If bitten or scratched, thoroughly wash the wound with soap and plenty of water.
• Seek medical attention. Contact a health care provider immediately after a suspected exposure. A doctor can determine whether rabies prevention treatment is necessary.
• Protect your pets. Keep dogs and cats current on rabies vaccinations and prevent them from roaming freely.
• Report animal encounters. If a pet is bitten or attacked by a potentially rabid animal, contact animal control and a veterinarian for guidance.

Health officials also recommend keeping garbage secured and avoiding leaving pet food outdoors, which can attract stray animals and wildlife.

Residents should not attempt to capture or handle an animal suspected of having rabies. Instead, they should leave the area and contact animal control.

How To Report Possible Rabies Exposure

Prince William County residents can report suspected rabies exposure to the Prince William County Police Department's Animal Control Bureau at 703-792-6500.

Residents with questions about rabies can also contact the Prince William Health District at PWHDRabies@vdh.virginia.gov.

The health department emphasizes that people should not wait for symptoms to develop before seeking medical care after a possible exposure. Early treatment is essential to preventing the disease.