YORKTOWN, Va. – Officials are warning residents about a fox that was found and tested positive for the rabies virus.
The fox was found in the area of Beechwood Lane and Bayberry Lane in Yorktown. The Peninsula Health District said the fox encountered two dogs, one on private property and the other on the street within hours of each one.
Anyone having information regarding any exposure to this animal (bite, scratch, or contact with saliva by open wound, eyes, nose, or mouth) is asked to contact the Environmental Health Office of the Peninsula Health department at (757) 594-7340. Exposures also include direct contact between your pet and the rabid animal. After hours, please contact local Animal Control, York County Animal Control: (757) 890-3601.
Rabies is a fatal, but preventable, disease. Health officials will be contacting people in the area where the fix was found.
The city is reminding residents:
- Vaccinate your pets.
- Report all exposures to animals (usually bites and scratches) to your doctor and the local health department.
- Enjoy wildlife from a distance – don’t feed or encourage wild animals such as raccoons, skunks or foxes to visit your premises.
- Do not feed your pets outside, leave trash uncovered, or try to handle any wild or feral animals you may feel are sick or injured.
