A fox that tested positive for rabies was found over the weekend near Broad and Brenwal avenues in Ewing, according to township health officials.
The animal was discovered on Nov. 22, and the Ewing Township Health Department is urging residents to avoid wildlife and ensure their pets are current on rabies vaccinations.
Rabies is a fatal viral disease spread mainly through the bite of an infected animal, though transmission can also occur if saliva gets into a person’s mouth, eyes or an open wound. Officials noted that people who did not touch the rabid fox are not at risk.
Health Officer Gabriella Hogan said foxes generally pose little danger, but unusual behavior such as aggression or disorientation should prompt residents to call Animal Control rather than approach the animal. She added that infected foxes may sometimes appear normal.
Anyone bitten or who has bare-skin contact with a potentially rabid animal should notify their local health department.
“Reporting bites is a legal obligation of exposed individuals and medical professionals to assure rapid actions are taken to protect the individuals involved and the public at-large,” Hogan said.
Residents are encouraged to keep pets vaccinated and avoid handling wildlife, including raccoons, skunks, coyotes and bats, which can also carry rabies.
If bitten or scratched by an unfamiliar or suspected rabid animal, officials advise washing the wound with soap and water and seeking immediate medical care.
“Health Department and Animal Control staff will work to locate, capture, and test suspect animals in an effort to definitively identify if the animal is infectious,” Hogan said.
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