Printer
TextHealth Information on Rabies
Learn More from the Fairfax County Police Department's Animal
Services Division
Rabies is a preventable viral disease of mammals most often
transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. The vast majority of
rabies cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) each year occur in wild animals like raccoons,
skunks, bats, and foxes. Domestic animals account for less than 10%
of the reported rabies cases, with cats, cattle, and dogs most often
reported rabid. ( more
..)
What to do if you were bitten by an animal in Fairfax County
- Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water to lessen the chance of infection.
- Seek medical attention.
- Report the incident: Call Fairfax County Animal Control 703-691-2131
-
Call the Fairfax County Health Department to discuss the incident
with the Rabies Coordinator:
703-246-2433 - The TTY phone number is 711.
- Vaccinate your pets.
- Do not allow your pets to roam unattended.
- Enjoy wildlife from afar.
- Do not feed wild or stray animals.
- Secure pet food and trash cans.
- Report sick or injured animals to Animal Control.
- Seal openings in your house so that wildlife may not enter.
- Learn about bats and rabies and how to protect yourself.
For More Information Please Visit
- Fairfax County Animal Services Division
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- Virginia Department of Health
Website Survey 