Rabid Fox Confirmed Near Bel Air, Health Officials Say

BEL AIR, MD — A fox found near Bel Air has tested positive for rabies, prompting Harford County health officials to warn residents to monitor for possible exposure.

The Harford County Health Department said Wednesday it received confirmation from the Maryland Department of Health that the fox, found near the 2500 block of Cullum Road, was infected with rabies.

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Officials said the animal may have exposed people or pets in the surrounding area. Anyone who had contact with a fox near Cullum Road is urged to contact the Harford County Health Department at 410-877-2300 for follow-up.

Health officials emphasized that seeing a fox is not, by itself, a cause for alarm, but residents should avoid interacting with wildlife and keep pets away from wild animals.

Officials also recommend residents:

• Keep pets leashed during walks and supervise them while outdoors.
• Ensure cats, dogs and ferrets are up to date on rabies vaccinations.
• Keep trash containers covered and avoid leaving pet food outside.
• Avoid feeding, petting or otherwise interacting with wildlife.
• Report stray animals displaying unusual behavior, such as aggression, excessive friendliness, lethargy or disorientation, to Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505.

Recent Harford County Rabies Cases

The latest confirmation is one of several rabid wild animals reported in Harford County this year:

• June 27: A rabid raccoon was confirmed near the 3600 block of Emory Church Road in Street, where officials warned of possible exposure to people and pets.
• June 17: A fox tested positive for rabies after it was found near the 2400 block of Claret Drive in Fallston.
• May 13: A rabid raccoon was confirmed in the 4000 block of Old Rocks Road in Street, prompting similar exposure warnings.

Residents who may have been exposed to any potentially rabid animal should contact the Harford County Health Department immediately for guidance.