ATMORE, Ala. (WALA) - A rabid fox attacked and bit an Atmore resident Thursday outside the victim's residence, the Alabama Department of Public Health reported today. Officials are advising residents to take precautions.
According to the ADPH, another person was present and came into direct physical contact with the fox.
The Escambia County Sheriff's Office was notified and a rabies investigation got underway. The fox was taken to the ADPH Bureau of Clinical Laboratories, where rabies was confirmed, health officials said.
Both people involved are being treated and the bite victim is receiving rabies shots to prevent infection, the ADPH said. No other exposures have been reported at this time, officials report.
The attack happened outside the victim's residence on U.S. 31, health officials said.
Rabies is a viral disease that can be fatal if untreated. While found primarily in wild animals, it can pose a threat to people and unvaccinated pets who may be exposed to a rabid animal.
The ADPH said Alabama state law requires that dogs, cats and ferrets 12 weeks of age and older be current with their rabies vaccinations. Rabies vaccines are also available for horses and other livestock, if recommended by a veterinarian.
To avoid exposure, residents are advised to take the following precautions: