Fox captured near Oak Creek Canyon tests positive for rabies

Fox
The fox, which attacked the individual near Sedona, tested positive for the disease. | File photo

ORGANIZATIONS IN THIS STORY

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Have a concern or an opinion about this story? Click below to share your thoughts.
Send a message

Community Newsmaker

Know of a story that needs to be covered? Pitch your story to The Business Daily.
Community Newsmaker

A fox that recently attacked a resident in Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona has tested positive for rabies by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS).

The fox, which attacked the individual near Sedona, tested positive for the disease and that the department is now posting signage on the area's trails and notifying local businesses. Rabies, an infectious disease which is transmitted to humans through the saliva of an infected animal, affects the nervous system including the brain and spinal cord.

According to the Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD), the individual who was exposed is now undergoing rabies prophylaxis treatment.

The CCPHSD is now urging all residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets from rabies, including asking residents to make sure their pet's vaccinations are up to date and to obey leash laws.

The CCPHSD is also asking residents to avoid wildlife, particularly animals showing unusual behavior including not fearing humans, aggression, staggering or acting sick. Beware of any nocturnal animals who are active during the day.

Residents are also asked to call 911 if they should encounter a wildlife emergency and can contact the CCPHSD's Animal Management Program at 928-679-8756 to report any wildlife sightings or unusual behavior. 

ORGANIZATIONS IN THIS STORY

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Have a concern or an opinion about this story? Click below to share your thoughts.
Send a message

Community Newsmaker

Know of a story that needs to be covered? Pitch your story to The Business Daily.
Community Newsmaker

MORE NEWS