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Fox who bit woman in Citrus Park is positive for rabies

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TBO.com

Published: April 20, 2009

Updated: 04/20/2009 04:33 pm

TAMPA - A fox that bit a woman Thursday morning in the Citrus Park area tested positive for rabies, said Hillsborough County Animal Services spokeswoman Marti Ryan.

The woman was bit about 8 a.m., and Hillsborough County Animal Services workers captured the fox a few hours later, Ryan said.

The Hillsborough County health department conducted the rabies test, which involved examining brain material.

Animal services will let people who live within 500 feet of the incident know. The victim has been notified and will undergo treatments.

"We take this very seriously," she said.

Anyone who is bitten by a stray or wild animal should begin rabies treatment as soon as possible.
"It's important not to waste any time," Ryan said.

Foxes, raccoons and other wild animals can carry rabies, but feral cats are also found to be common carriers of the virus. Vaccinating pets ensures they will not get the virus and provides protection for owners.

Most people associate an animal with rabies with aggressive behavior and foaming at the mouth. But more frequently, erratic behavior or an unsteady gait are common visible symptoms.

This is the third known positive rabies test in Hillsborough County this year.

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