A fox found near the 2300 block of Perry Avenue in Edgewood has tested positive for rabies, and people who live nearby are being asked to check whether they or their pets came into contact with it.
The Harford County Health Department said Wednesday that the Maryland Department of Health confirmed the fox had rabies. Officials said the fox may have exposed other people and pets in the surrounding area before it was found.
What This Means for You: If you or your pet had contact with a fox in that area of Edgewood, you should call the Harford County Health Department at 410-877-2300 for a follow-up. Health officials said simply seeing a fox is not a reason to worry, but direct contact should be reported.
The Rule: Health officials are reminding residents how to protect themselves and their pets from rabies. Keep pets on a leash during walks and watch them closely in your backyard. Make sure cats, dogs and ferrets are current on their rabies shots through a vet or a local vaccination clinic. Cover trash cans and don’t leave pet food outside, since this can attract wild animals. Avoid feeding, petting or otherwise interacting with wildlife. If you see a stray animal acting strangely, such as being unusually friendly, aggressive, weak or confused, call Harford County Animal Control at 410-638-3505.
The Path Forward: Anyone with direct contact with the fox is urged to contact the health department for guidance on next steps. Rabies is spread through the saliva of infected animals, most often through a bite, and can be fatal if not treated before symptoms appear.
Possible follow-up stories: local rabies case totals in Harford County this year, how the county handles reports of aggressive wildlife, and what treatment looks like for someone exposed to rabies.