• The case is the first documented rabid animal this year in Columbus.
The county’s first documented case of rabies for the year was found in Evergreen Wednesday.
In a press release, Animal Protective Services said the fox was found in the 10000 block of Old 74. APS personnel responded after the animal was seen behaving in an unusual manner.
The fox was euthanized and sent for testing. On Thursday, the state lad confirmed the fox was rabid.
Raccoons, foxes, bobcats and bats are the primary rabies vectors among wildlife, but any mammal can contract the disease. It does not affect birds and reptiles.
Rabies is a neurological virus that is spread through saliva and direct contact with brain tissue or the spinal cord. Mammals can be infected through bites, scratches and even licking.
State law requires that all dogs, cats and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination is also strongly suggested for outside livestock like horses, ponies, donkeys, goats and sheep. Vaccinations are good for one or three years, depending on the type. The vaccination must be kept up to date.
Rabies vaccinations are available at any veterinarian’s office, or through Animal Protective Services. The shelter is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. for rabies vaccinations. Cost is $10.
The signs and symptoms of rabies includes
• Partial paralysis or inability to use limbs
• Circling or staggering
• Aggressive behavior for no reason
• Behaving unnaturally tame
• Excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth.
Any spotting an animal exhibiting strange behavior is asked to call 911 and report the sighting to APS.
