Arlington issues warning after potentially rabid raccoon bites person

Potentially rabid raccoons raising concerns in Arlington

Arlington officials are warning people after a few raccoons showed symptoms consistent with rabies - including one that bit a person.

ARLINGTON, Va. - Arlington officials are warning residents to beware after a "lethargic" raccoon bit a person last week, "potentially exposing them to rabies."

The Animal Welfare League of Arlington says the raccoon – which bit the person in the 4200 block of 25th Street North – has not been located, although Arlington County Animal Control Sgt. Cliff Ballena said animals that contract rabies often die quickly.

He added that the victim was treated and is now okay.

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This is the third potentially rabid raccoon in the area – two others were removed from the Donaldson Run neighborhood in the past month. The animals reportedly had symptoms consistent with rabies – but no one was exposed to them.

One of the signs that an animal has been infected with rabies is lethargy – if you see an animal stumbling about, there’s an good chance it’s been infected.

Officials are warning people that if they think they’ve been exposed to rabies, they should call (703) 931-9241 immediately.