Fox Positive for Rabies – Town of Dover

Fox Positive for Rabies – Town of Dover

The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) reported that a rabid fox was captured on Anderson Road in Dover on July 8th and sent for testing on July 9th.  On July 10th, the results were confirmed.

The Department advises that anyone who is aware of any contact between a fox and any person or domestic animal within the past two weeks is asked to contact DBCH at (845) 486-3404, or (845) 431-6465 after hours.

Residents are reminded that in addition to foxes, other animals can carry and transmit rabies.  These include raccoons, bats, and skunks, as well as domesticated animals like dogs, cats, ferrets, and livestock. Any exposure to a potentially rabid animal through either a bite or its saliva should be reported to the Department (845) 486-3404. Steps should be taken to safely capture the potentially rabid animal for follow-up.

In Dutchess County, nearly 70 individuals undergo rabies post-exposure treatment annually. Rabies is a serious illness and is fatal if not treated. Don’t delay evaluation if you think you have been exposed to rabies.

Author: Harlem Valley News