United States: Wake County officials said Thursday a man in Wake Forest was infected this week by a rabid fox bite.
Wake County Public Health and Wake County Animal Control have reported that on Tuesday, a fox bit a man near the corner of Pulley Town Road and Thornburg Drive in Wake Forest.
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Animal Control arrived at the scene, and the fox was caught. On Wednesday, county authorities announced that the animal had tested positive for rabies, cbs17.com reported.
There have been no other reports about this rabid fox as of Thursday, but within the community, officials of Animal Control and the Wake County Communicable Disease would be canvassing the area to inform the community about the incident and also inquire whether some people would need it for their pets.
Any person who might have encountered the fox in this region is advised to contact the Wake County Communicable Disease phone at (919) 250-4462. In case one thinks he or she or his or her pet has been bitten or scratched by an animal in the wild that might be rabid, he or she or his or her pet is advised to seek medical attention immediately.
According to Wake County Commissioner Safiyah Jackson, “While rare, rabies is a deadly disease that can spread from animals to humans, so it’s critical to take simple steps to protect yourself and your pets,” cbs17.com reported.
“Avoid contact with wild animals, make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations, and report any unusual animal behavior to authorities right away,” Jackson noted.