Rabies Case Confirmed In Red Fox Seen Near Severna Park

ANNAPOLIS, MD — County health officials are urging anyone who might have come into contact with a red fox seen near the intersection of Monmouth Avenue and Brandywine Avenue in Severna Park to contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Health immediately. The red fox, which was found Oct. 4, has tested positive for rabies.

Health officials note that anyone or any pet that had contact with the red fox or if any pets have unexplained wounds need to reach out to authorities. Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal and also is spread when an infected animal's saliva comes into contact with the eyes, nose, mouth or open cut of a person or animal. Rabies is a fatal disease and preventative treatment in the form of injections must begin as soon as possible. Health officials urge Anne Arundel County residents to not feed wild or stray animals or leave food dishes outside. Pet owners also need to keep their pets' rabies vaccination current.

Contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Health at 410-222-7256 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or at 443-481-3140 after business hours.