Fox Tests Positive For Rabies In New London

NEW LONDON, CT — A fox found in the area of Georgiana Street and Cape Ann Court in New London tested positive for rabies Monday, according to a statement from the Ledge Light Health District.

The health district warned that people should refrain from feeding or approaching wild or stray animals.

"Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including people," the district said in a statement. "It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus. The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, etc.)"

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ledge Light Health District at 860-448-4882 or New London Animal Control at 860-447-5231.

For more information on rabies, go to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's website.