On Tuesday, October 28, Animal Control captured and euthanized a fox exhibiting signs and symptoms of rabies in the vicinity of 2100 Maurice River Parkway. On October 30, the Vineland Health Department received confirmation that the fox tested positive for rabies.

Any persons having come in physical contact with the infected fox are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider and receive post-exposure treatment. Parents, speak to your children about possible unreported contacts or sighting of animals acting strangely.

“We would like homeowners to examine their pets for wounds of unknown origin and anything suspicious should be reported to your veterinarian or the health department. We are also asking residents in the area to be watchful for any animals exhibiting strange behavior, signs of illness or undue aggression. We suspect the fox may have fought with a skunk and may have been exposed to rabies. This skunk could infect other animals or humans in the area,” stated Emma Lopez, assistant health officer.

Rabies in humans is rare in the United States. There are usually only one or two human cases per year with the most common source of human rabies in the United States from bats. The Vineland Health Department would like to remind residents how serious rabies can be and that it is very important to have pets vaccinated.

Rabies is a virus that can infect all species of mammals. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes, groundhogs and bats are known to carry the virus and infect other animals. If someone sees an animal acting strangely, they should:

• Stay well away from the animal and advise others to do so.

• Advise the local authorities immediately by calling Animal Control at 856-691-4111.

People who may have come in contact with, or had their pets come in contact with, the fox are encouraged to call the Vineland Health Department at 856-794-4131.