Stay informed about the recent discovery of two rabid animals in Fairfax County. Learn about the symptoms, prevention measures, and local resources. Protect yourself and your pets from rabies. Contact Fairfax County Health Department for more information.
In the Centreville and Bull Run areas of Fairfax County, Virginia, residents are being urged to exercise caution after the discovery of two rabid animals within a mile of each other in just 25 days. Health Department officials found a rabid raccoon and skunk in the westernmost part of the county, near Cub Run Stream Valley Park & Trail, Pleasant Hill Park, and James McDonnell Recreation Center.
These animals had interacted with domestic pets, prompting officials to advise anyone who believes their pets may have been touched, bitten, or scratched by wild animals between September 19 and October 14 to contact the county health department. Rabies is a serious disease caused by a virus that can infect wildlife and domestic animals, and it spreads through saliva and central nervous tissue.
It is crucial for residents to be vigilant in safeguarding themselves and their pets to prevent the spread of this dangerous virus.
What Happened
In recent days, Fairfax County, Virginia has experienced a concerning increase in rabies cases. Two rabid animals, a raccoon and a skunk, were found within a mile of each other in the Centreville and Bull Run areas. This has raised concerns among residents and prompted the Fairfax County Health Department to issue a cautionary advisory.
In this article, we will provide background information on the discovery of these rabid animals, highlight the symptoms of rabies, discuss preventive measures, provide information on the current rabies cases in Fairfax County, and share local resources and contact information for reporting potential contact. It is essential to stay informed about rabies and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your pets.
Discovery of 2 rabid animals in 25 days
Within a span of 25 days, Fairfax County officials discovered two rabid animals, a raccoon and a skunk, in the westernmost part of the county. These animals were found in residential areas close to Cub Run Stream Valley Park & Trail, Pleasant Hill Park, and James McDonnell Recreation Center.
This close proximity of the rabid animals raises concerns about the potential spread of the disease among humans and domestic pets.
Centreville and Bull Run areas affected
The areas primarily affected by the discovery of the rabid animals are Centreville and Bull Run. Residents of these areas are urged to exercise caution and stay away from wild animals. Preventive measures should also be taken to keep domestic pets safe from potential contact with rabid animals.
Location of rabid animals
The rabid animals were found in the westernmost part of Fairfax County, near Cub Run Stream Valley Park & Trail, Pleasant Hill Park, and James McDonnell Recreation Center. These areas are in close proximity to residential neighborhoods, emphasizing the need for residents to be cautious and report any potential contact with wild animals.
Interaction with domestic pets
Both the rabid raccoon and skunk interacted with domestic pets, leading to their discovery and subsequent testing. It is crucial for residents to closely monitor the behavior and health of their pets following any interaction with wild animals. Prompt reporting of potential contact is essential for appropriate testing and preventive action.
Call to report potential contact
Residents, along with their pets, who may have been touched, bitten, or scratched by any wild animals between September 19 and October 14, are strongly urged to contact the Fairfax County Health Department. Reporting potential contact allows for timely investigation and appropriate measures to be taken to mitigate the risk of rabies transmission.
Understanding Rabies
Definition and cause of rabies
Rabies is a serious disease caused by a virus that primarily infects wildlife, including foxes, raccoons, skunks, and bats, as well as domestic animals such as dogs and cats. The rabies virus is found in the saliva and central nervous tissue of an infected animal. Humans can contract rabies when bitten or scratched by an animal that is sick with the disease.
Animals susceptible to rabies
Various animals are susceptible to rabies, with wildlife being particularly vulnerable. Foxes, raccoons, skunks, and bats are among the most common carriers of the rabies virus. Domestic pets, such as dogs and cats, can also contract rabies if exposed to an infected animal.
Transmission of rabies
Rabies can be transmitted through the saliva or tissue of an infected animal entering an open wound or orifice of another animal or human. It is important to note that rabies is not airborne and cannot be transmitted through casual contact.
Symptoms of Rabies
Early stages of the disease
During the early stages of rabies, infected animals may show no signs of the disease, making it challenging to identify whether an animal is infected or not. Animals in this stage may appear normal and display no changes in behavior.
Changes in behavior as the disease progresses
As the disease progresses, animals infected with rabies often exhibit significant changes in behavior. They may display aggressive or unusual behavior, such as excessive aggression, disorientation, unprovoked aggression, and difficulty swallowing. It is crucial to report any animals showing these symptoms to the relevant authorities.
Prevention Measures
Preventing pet roaming
To minimize the risk of rabies transmission, it is important to prevent pets from roaming unattended. Keep your pets within the confines of your property and supervised during outdoor activities. This reduces the chances of encounters with potentially rabid animals.
Avoiding feeding wild or stray animals
Feeding wild or stray animals should be avoided to prevent close contact between domestic pets and potentially infected animals. Feeding wildlife can attract them to residential areas, increasing the likelihood of interactions that could result in the transmission of rabies.
Proper wound care and seeking medical attention
In the event of a bite or scratch from an animal that may have rabies, it is crucial to wash the wound with soap and water immediately. Seeking medical attention promptly is also essential for assessment and appropriate preventive measures, such as administering the rabies vaccine.
Current Rabies Cases in Fairfax County
As of this year, Fairfax County has reported 22 diagnosed cases of rabies within the Fairfax Health District. This emphasizes the need for vigilance and adherence to preventive measures to protect both humans and animals from rabies transmission.
Local Resources and Information
Residents who suspect potential contact with rabid animals or have any concerns regarding rabies are encouraged to contact the Fairfax County Health Department at 703-246-2433, TTY 711. Additionally, more information on rabies prevention and treatment can be found on the department’s website.
Conclusion
The recent discovery of two rabid animals in Fairfax County is a cause for concern, highlighting the need for caution and preventive measures. By understanding the definition and transmission of rabies, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing prevention measures, we can minimize the risk of rabies transmission.
It is important to stay informed, report any potential contact with wild animals, and seek medical attention promptly in the event of a bite or scratch. By working together and prioritizing safety, we can ensure the well-being of our community and protect our beloved pets from the dangers of rabies.
Sources
- Fairfax Co. health department urging caution after 2 rabid animals found within 25 days. Retrieved from: Fairfax County Health Department
- Rabies Information for Fairfax County. Retrieved from: Fairfax County Health Department – Rabies Information