June 6th, 2019 by WCBC Radio
The Allegany County Health Department reports that a fox recently tested positive for rabies. The fox was tested after biting a child in the Flintstone area. Rabies is a virus that is spread from an infected animal to other animals or to humans through saliva. Residents should be mindful of approaching wild animals and take steps to prevent exposure to the rabies virus.
- Avoid all wild animals including feral cats and bats. Bats may be carriers of rabies, so seek advice from your health care provider if exposed to a bat or if you wake to find a bat in your room.
- Seek medical attention immediately if bitten by an animal.
- Make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Pet owners are required by law to be vaccinated against the rabies virus. The mandatory age for vaccinations varies by state, so check with your veterinarian to see what the law in your state requires.
Questions about the rabies virus can be directed to the Allegany County Health Department Environmental Health Division at 301-759-5040.
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