Rabid Fox Euthanized In Hollis After Biting 4-Year-Old

HOLLIS, NH — A fox that bit a four-year-old in Hollis Sunday afternoon has tested positive for rabies, a disease with nearly a 100 percent fatality rate, the Hollis Police Department said Thursday.

The bite occurred at 3:30 p.m. on Truell Road, after which the child's mother said she was able to "physically hold the fox down," preventing further injury to the child or bystanders.

Once police arrived and found that the fox "showed obvious signs of illness and aggression," they euthanized it at the scene. It was picked up by New Hampshire Conservation officers, who confirmed the fox tested positive for rabies.

The mother and child both received prompt medical treatment, as it is crucial that anyone potentially exposed to rabies receives appropriate medical care before symptoms begin. After the disease becomes symptomatic, the disease quickly overtakes the central nervous system and almost always leads to death.

"Some people are critical of the actions of the Hollis Officers who euthanized this animal," Chief of Police Brendan LaFlamme said Thursday. "I stand behind the officers' actions. They acted quickly and professionally to make the scene safe so that the injured four-year-old could get the treatment that she needed. Their actions prevented any further injury to people and animals, slowed the spread of this disease, and ended the animal's suffering."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rabies is a fatal viral disease that can spread to people and pets if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal like a bat, raccoon, skunk, fox, or—usually internationally—dog.

Rabies can be prevented by vaccinating pets, staying away from wildlife, and seeking prompt Rabies Postexposure Prophylaxis after potential exposure, according to the CDC.