Fox That Bit 3 Dogs In Summit Had Rabies, Officials Confirm

SUMMIT, NJ — A fox thought to have been responsible for attacking three dogs in Summit this week tested positive for rabies, the City of Summit confirmed Thursday.

Initial reports from the Summit Police Department indicated that the first bite — which took place on Dale Drive Sunday evening — was by a coyote, and the next two — which occurred near Mountain Avenue and Larned Road Monday evening—were likely by a rabid fox. However, city officials later said they believe the fox initiated all three attacks.

Officials said the fox believed to be involved in the attacks was found near Mountain Avenue and Tulip Street and taken to Animal Control to be tested for rabies. This disease can be fatal, and is transmitted to humans and animals through bites, scratches, or open wounds that come into contact with the saliva of an infected animal.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, foxes typically don't attack humans as their natural tendency is to flee rather than to fight. However, a rabid fox might act aggressively unprovoked.

Local officials urge anyone who believes that they, a family member, or their pets had contact with this fox or any other wildlife "that appeared sick or behaved strangely" to immediately contact the Westfield Regional Health Department at 908-789-4070.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is crucial that anyone potentially exposed to rabies receives appropriate medical care before symptoms begin, after which the disease quickly overtakes the central nervous system and almost always leads to death.

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

This story contains reporting from Patch's Cailin Loesch.