Fox Tests Positive For Rabies In Anne Arundel County

CHURCHTON, MD — A fox found roaming the area of Rodgers Road and Cape Road Feb. 11 has tested positive for rabies. The Anne Arundel County Department of Health asks that anyone or any pet that had contact with this fox to contact the county health department at 410-222-7256 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 443-481-3140 after business hours and holidays. If a pet has unexplained wounds, also contact the health department.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon or bat. It is also spread when an infected animal’s saliva comes in contact with the eyes, nose, mouth or open cut of a person or another animal.

Preventive treatment might be required for anyone who handled, fed or was attacked by the fox. Rabies is a fatal disease and preventive treatment in the form of injections must be started as soon as possible. The health department advises county residents not to feed wild or stray animals or leave food dishes outside. Pet owners should also keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations current.