LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) -- A red fox in Loudoun County tested positive for a highly contagious category of bird flu and is the first mammal case reported in Virginia, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) announced Friday. The DWR said the red fox was found in Hamilton and transported to the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center rehabilitation facility on March 31. Initially, the fox was believed to have rabies and was humanely euthanized. The fox tested positive for H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), the first reported case in mammals in Virginia. The DWR added that the rabies test results are still pending. Bald eagle released in Fairfax County after injury, recovery According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), HPAI has been found in mammals in over 30 states since 2022 and is likely caused by animals eating infected birds. HPAI symptoms are similar to infectious diseases such as rabies and canine distemper. The DWR reminds residents not to interact with, approach or feed wild animals. Pets are also noted to be kept on a leash and away from birds and other wildlife. The American Veterinary Association emphasized that cats are especially susceptible to severe illness after contracting HPAI, and owners are asked to keep them indoors. The DWR provided instructions for those who may have encountered a sick animal: "If you see a wild animal exhibiting neurologic symptoms (lack of fear of humans, circling or wobbly gait, inability to stand, etc.), please contact your local animal control office or a local wildlife rehabilitator. Do not attempt to handle or capture it. Clusters of sick or dead wild mammals (two or more in the same area), especially in a locality with suspected or confirmed HPAI cases this year, should be reported to the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 1-855-571-9003 or email wildlifehealth@dwr.virginia.gov." Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms or red, itchy eyes after handling or being scratched or bitten by wildlife is asked to contact their local health department and healthcare provider. ...read more read less