Wake County Public Health and Wake County Animal Control have confirmed that a fox tested positive for rabies yesterday after biting a person on Tuesday, June 24. Animal Control responded to the incident in a neighborhood near the corner of Pulley Town Road and Thornburg Drive in Wake Forest. The fox was captured and later tested positive for rabies.

At this time, no other incidents have been reported in connection with the rabid fox.  

Wake County Communicable Disease and Animal Control plan to canvass the neighborhood to help notify the community and to see if any residents need their pets vaccinated.

Anyone in the area where the bite occurred and who may have encountered this fox, is encouraged to call the Wake County Communicable Disease line at 919-250-4462. If you or your pets have been bitten or scratched, please seek medical care immediately.

“While rare, rabies is a deadly disease that can spread from animals to humans, so it’s critical to take simple steps to protect yourself and your pets,” said Wake County Commissioner Safiyah Jackson. “Avoid contact with wild animals, make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and report any unusual animal behavior to authorities right away.”

Rabies Vaccines for Pets

Wake County encourages anyone who has pets with outdoor access to make sure they are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.

Anyone who sees an animal acting in an unusual manner is urged to call Animal Control officials. Please follow the guidance below:

• Do not approach animals that you do not know. Exercise caution and maintain a safe distance.
• If you have been bitten or scratched by an animal of unknown vaccination history, wash the wound immediately and seek medical attention.
• Ensure your pets have a current rabies vaccination. If your pet is allowed outside, a booster vaccine is strongly recommended. Keep outdoor pets indoors until they receive the booster vaccines.
• Do not feed stray or unknown animals, including cats and dogs. Avoid any interaction that may result in potential exposure.
• Do not leave trash or food outside unless it is in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid. Prevent attracting wild animals to your property.
• If a pet is fed outside, do not leave food out overnight to minimize the chances of attracting animals that may carry rabies.
• If a pet comes in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact a veterinarian immediately. Seek professional guidance to ensure the well-being of your pet.

For more information, please check out wake.gov/StopRabies