The Alabama Department of Public Health sent a warning to the public after a fox with rabies bit a woman.
The woman was unloading her groceries in Atmore when the fox came out of nowhere and attacked her, officials said. The fox was captured and tested positive for rabies.
"Although rabies is primarily found in wild animals since widespread vaccination of domestic animals began over 70 years ago, it continues to be a public health threat," Dr. Dee W. Jones, State Public Health Veterinarian, said. “Although attacks such as this by rabid wildlife are rather uncommon, it highlights the risk rabies continues to pose and hopefully reminds people to be aware of the risks and continue to vaccinate their pets.”
The ADPH said the woman was elderly. She was treated for exposure.
All dogs, cats and ferrets must have the rabies vaccine after they reach 12 weeks old. Officials say the law exists because domestic animals often come into contact with rabid wild animals.
In addition to vaccination, area residents are advised to take the following precautions to avoid possible rabies exposures:
Do not allow pets to run loose; confine within a fenced-in area or with a leash.
Do not leave uneaten pet food or scraps near your residence.
Do not illegally feed or keep wildlife as pets.
Do not go near wildlife or domestic animals that are acting in a strange or unusual manner.
Caution: children should not go near any stray or wild animal, regardless of its behavior.
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