A fox near the 2500 block of Cullum Road in Bel Air has tested positive for rabies, Harford County health officials confirmed Wednesday.

What’s happening: The Maryland Department of Health confirmed the positive test result Wednesday. Anyone who had contact with a fox in that area — or whose pet did — should call the Harford County Health Department at (410) 877-2300.

What this means for you: Rabies is a deadly virus spread through the saliva of infected animals, usually through a bite. If a person or pet was exposed and does not get treatment in time, the disease can be fatal. Seeing a fox in the area is not cause for alarm on its own — only direct contact matters.

How to protect yourself and your pets:

  • Keep pets on a leash during walks and watch them closely in the backyard.
  • Make sure dogs, cats, and ferrets are current on their rabies vaccinations.
  • Cover trash cans and do not leave pet food outside, which can attract wildlife.
  • Do not feed, pet, or touch wild animals.
  • Call Harford County Animal Control at (410) 638-3505 if you see a stray animal acting strangely — signs include unusual friendliness, aggression, sluggishness, or confusion.
B.T. Clark

About the Author

B.T. Clark

B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and Publisher of The Harford County Sun and The Free State Press. He brings 25 years of experience in journalism, including 15 years as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta, eight years as Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc., and seven years as Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He and his family recently relocated to Maryland. Clark is also the author of Principles Are Like Pants, You Ought to Have Some.

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