Raccoon Bites Two People in Old Town Alexandria, Health Officials Warn

Two people were bitten by a raccoon in Old Town alexandria, and health officials warned residents to avoid wildlife after a dead raccoon was found in the same area because rabies is a concern.

Raccoon charged and bit two people in Old Town

The Alexandria Health Department said the raccoon charged at two people on Tuesday and bit them near North Henry Street, North Patrick Street and Cameron Street. Officials described the animal's aggressive behavior as raising a real concern for rabies, though it is unclear whether the dead raccoon found nearby is the same animal that attacked the people.

Alexandria health department sends carcass for rabies testing

No living raccoon has been captured in alexandria, but a dead raccoon was found in the area and is being sent off for rabies testing. Officials have not confirmed whether test results are available yet; the confirmed next step is that the carcass will undergo laboratory testing to determine if it carried the virus.

Officials urge caution and immediate care if bitten

Eve Elliott, a spokesperson for the Alexandria Department of Health, urged people to stay alert and avoid wildlife, saying, "Raccoons, foxes, other animals — they can carry rabies, and so we want people to remember that. " Health staff also told residents to keep pets close and to seek medical care immediately if they or their animals are bitten.

Neighbors in Old Town said they are walking more cautiously after the attacks. "If I see it, I'm running the other direction. They're small but mighty, " said Jalen Byrd about animals in the neighborhood. Geoff Chester added, "It wouldn't surprise me if they're out here. There's a lot of trash and good things to eat here, " pointing to local trash as an attractant on streets near the reported bites.

The immediate next step confirmed by officials is that the found raccoon will be tested for rabies. In the meantime, residents are being asked to avoid contact with wildlife, keep pets close while walking in Old Town, and seek prompt medical attention if bitten.