In the Arlington area, a rabid fox attacks humans and pets.

ARLINGTON, Virginia — Residents in Arlington's Gulf Branch neighborhood were on high alert Wednesday after a rabid fox bit a person and three cats.

The fox attacked the victims in the 3500 block of N Utah Street and 4507 block of 33rd Street North, and it was temporarily on the loose. While the fox was still on the loose, the County encouraged neighbors to keep dogs and children indoors unless they were supervised.

The scenario was concerning, as rabies is a lethal disease if the infected person does not receive medical attention soon. People and animals can contract the disease by infected animals' bites or scratches.

A fox with a similar wound pattern on its back has been captured, officials announced Wednesday evening. Arlington County Animal Control and the Arlington County Department of Human Services are now requesting anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a wild animal, including a fox, to contact them as soon as possible by calling 703-931-9241. Please contact us if any of your pets have been wounded by a wild animal.

Anyone who comes into contact with a fox or any other wild animal in the future is asked to follow the county's advice:

Ensure that your pet's rabies and distemper immunizations are up to date.

Keep dogs on a leash and cats inside at all times.

Any wild animals should not be approached or fed.

Pets should be fed inside.

Remove wildlife attractants from your yard, such as unsecured garbage cans, open food and compost containers.

Avoid hazing or making loud noises at an afflicted animal. According to the county, back away slowly while keeping your back to the animal at all times. If you find a dead rabies vector animal in your yard or a public space (including cats, dogs, foxes, raccoons, and groundhogs), notify Animal Control immediately and do not handle the animal.

Details Here