After a raccoon that later tested positive for rabies came into contact with a dog and its owner in Potomac Yard, the Alexandria Health Department is urging caution around wildlife.
The health department said the raccoon was aggressive when it had contact with the dog around E. Glebe Road in Potomac Yard on May 23. The dog’s owner was also potentially exposed while relocating the dog to a safe area. Officials say the dog and owner are safe, and the dog is being monitored for symptoms.
The raccoon was captured and killed, and testing later confirmed it had rabies.
According to the health department, rabies is endemic, or typically present, in Alexandria’s wildlife. Officials urge residents to avoid approaching or feeding wild, stray and feral animals, even if they look friendly or injured.
Pet owners are recommended to keep dogs and cats up to date with vaccinations and keep dogs on a leash in public areas and parks. The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria hosts low-cost vaccine and microchip clinics throughout the year.
Symptoms of rabies in animals include unexpected aggression, extreme drooling or foaming at the mouth and walking with unusual sluggishness or stupor.
Rabies spreads through a cut or wound from infected animal. If a person or pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, they should wash the wound well with soap and water and provide first aid. After that, seek medical care or contact the pet’s veterinarian and report the exposure to the Alexandria Health Department during business hours at 703-746-4910.
Rabies is typically fatal once symptoms have begun, which could take weeks or months. Early symptoms in people can include flu-like symptoms, fatigue, fever and headache for several days. After those symptoms, brain issues, agitation, hallucination and hydrophobia could appear. People should contact their medical provider to discuss rabies vaccinations, which prevent rabies infections after exposure.
Anyone who observes wildlife showing symptoms of rabies can call Alexandria Animal Control at 703-746-4444.
