The Health Department urges residents who have had contact with this animal to consult with their doctors.
Frederick, Md. (KM) A fox found in the area of Baughmans Lane and Shookstown Road in Frederick has tested positive for rabies. The Frederick County Health Department says it received the confirmation from the Maryland Department of Health Rabies Laboratory on Tuesday, October 5th. .
The animal was collected on Saturday, October 2nd after it had an encounter with a dog, the County Health Department says in a news release.
Anyone who has had contact with this fox between September 15th and October 2nd is asked to consult with their primary health care provider and notify the Health Department’s Community Health Services at 301-600-3342/ . If your pet has had contact with this fox, you’re asked to consult with your veterinarian, and contact the Health Department’s Environmental Health Office at 301-600-1717.
Rabies is a viral disease which infects mammals and is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite, according to the County Health Department.. The symptoms in animals include fear of water, excessive salivation, failure to eat or drink, limping, and unusually friendly or aggressive behavior. It can also include some unusual activities such as nocturnal animals emerging during the daylight hours.
The County Health Department says rabies is nearly fatal to humans if they’re infected, and no post exposure treatment is begun.
By Kevin McManus