BURKVILLE, Ala. – A hunter in Burkville, Lowndes County, was attacked by a fox that later tested positive for rabies, prompting a warning from Alabama’s State Public Health veterinarian.
The fox repeatedly bit and attacked the hunter’s shoes before it was subdued and captured. It was then sent to the Alabama Department of Public Health laboratory for testing. The hunter has since begun the post-exposure prophylaxis treatment series.
“This is a good reminder as the warmer months get underway to remember to vaccinate your animals and to report any strange-acting wildlife,” said Dr. Dee W. Jones, the State Public Health veterinarian.
Increased Risk of Rabies in Spring
Dr. Jones warned that foxes are communal animals, which increases the likelihood of disease transmission. This means additional foxes in the area may also be infected.
“Since foxes are communal animals which can increase the likelihood of transmission, it is possible that additional foxes within this geographical proximity may be infected,” Jones said.
According to Jones, springtime typically sees more animal movement, which often leads to an increase in positive rabies cases. Additional testing is being conducted on the fox to determine the strain of rabies, though it is expected to be the raccoon strain. This strain is the primary source of rabies in terrestrial animals across Alabama, including Lowndes County.
Uncommon but Dangerous Animal Attacks
While it is rare for wild animals to attack humans, rabies can alter an animal’s mental state, sometimes making them aggressive.
“Instances of wildlife species attacking people is not common, but it does happen because of the altered mental states the virus causes in the animal,” Jones explained.
Importance of Rabies Vaccination
To prevent the spread of rabies, Alabama state law requires that all dogs, cats, and ferrets over 12 weeks old be vaccinated. Although rabies vaccines are available in both one-year and three-year versions, the initial vaccine is only valid for one year, regardless of type. Keeping pets vaccinated reduces the risk of infection and helps protect both animals and their owners.
Rabies Prevention Guidelines
State health officials recommend the following precautions to minimize the risk of rabies exposure:
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Keep pets confined within a fenced area or on a leash; do not allow them to roam freely.
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Avoid leaving pet food or food scraps near your home.
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Do not feed or keep wild animals as pets.
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Stay away from wildlife or domestic animals displaying strange or aggressive behavior.
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Teach children to avoid contact with stray or wild animals, regardless of their behavior.
Rabies prevention involves a combination of personal precautions, proper pet vaccinations, and reporting any potential exposures to medical professionals or the Alabama Department of Public Health.
