Fox in Sussex County tests positive for rabies after biting human, dog
Jessica BiesA fox captured southwest of Rehoboth Beach, near Angola, tested positive for rabies this week after biting both a human and a dog.
The victim and the victim's dog were walking in the area of Camp Arrowhead Road between Marsh Island Golf Club and Angola Road when they were bitten by the fox, according to Delaware's Division of Public Health.
The fox was later captured and taken to the public health lab, where test results on Tuesday confirmed it had rabies.
The victim has begun treatment for rabies exposure while the victim’s dog, which was up to date on its rabies vaccinations, is under quarantine, according to the Public Health Division.
Anyone who may have been bitten, scratched or come in contact with the rabid fox should immediately contact a health care provider or call the DPH Rabies Program at (302) 744-4995. An epidemiologist is available 24/7.
Anyone whose pet may have been bitten should call a private veterinarian or the Delaware Department of Agriculture at (302) 698-4630.
Since Jan. 1, the Division of Public Health has performed rabies tests on 68 animals, eight of which were confirmed to be rabid. They were two foxes (including this one), two raccoons, one sheep, one cat and two dogs.
Rabies affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals and cannot be cured once symptoms appear. Infection can occur through the bite or scratch of an infected animal or if saliva from such an animal gets into the eyes, nose, mouth or an opening in the skin.
Health officials recommend people stay away from wild and feral animals, make sure their pets are up to date with rabies shots and keep the animals indoors or on a leash while outside.
For more information, visit dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/rabies.html or call (866) 972-9705.
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Contact Jessica Bies at (302) 324-2881 or jbies@delawareonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @jessicajbies.