A recent incident in Wake County has raised concerns about rabies after a rabid fox bit a man on Tuesday. The fox, which tested positive for rabies on Wednesday, was involved in an animal attack in a neighborhood near the intersection of Pulley Town Road and Thornburg Drive in Wake Forest. This alarming event highlights the ongoing risk of rabies in the area and the importance of public awareness regarding animal bites.
Following the incident, Wake County Animal Control promptly responded to the scene and captured the fox for testing. Fortunately, officials confirmed that the fox did not bite anyone else in the neighborhood. In an effort to ensure community safety, Animal Control has announced plans to canvas the area and assess whether any residents need to have their pets vaccinated against rabies.
The county is urging anyone who may have encountered the rabid fox to report their interactions by calling the Wake County Communicable Disease line at 919-250-4462. This outreach is crucial for tracking potential rabies exposure in the community and ensuring that all residents are informed about the situation.
This incident marks the fourth reported rabies bite case in Wake County this month alone. Previous cases included attacks from three different animals, including two other foxes in Raleigh. Additionally, a separate incident in Fayetteville involved a fox attacking a home inspector. These incidents underscore the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures against rabies.
In light of these incidents, health leaders in Wake County are providing general tips to help minimize the risk of rabies. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their pets from potential rabies exposure.
By staying vigilant and taking appropriate precautions, the community can work together to reduce the threat posed by rabid animals and ensure public health and safety.
