WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A fox has tested positive for rabies following an attack on two people in Winston-Salem, according to the Forsyth County Department of Public Health.
The attacks happened on June 27.
One of them happened at a community event at the Williams C Sims Senior Recreation Center.
Shakayla Glenn said she was working at the rec center the day a fox bit a woman painting an outdoor mural.
"It was a bunch of chaos. Everyone was like someone just got bit by a fox with rabies," Glenn said. "it bit her hand, leg and her arm from what she told us."
Glenn said Animal control arrived shortly after.
"They came and spotted the fox. Shot it twice. It wasn't that big," Glenn said. "They were able to capture it and hopefully it's the only one roaming around in the community."
Officials urge anyone who came in contact with the fox from June 20-27 to reach out to their primary care provider and Forsyth County Animal Services at 336-703-2480.
As far as the victim, Glenn said she appeared to be okay.
"She was pacing and wanted to call her spouse. That's a shocker for anyone to be bitten by a fox," Glenn said. "Thinking you're having a therapeutic time painting and enjoying your evening a this community event."
The Health Department said with the summer months in full swing incidents like this could become more common.
"Vaccinate animals and avoid wildlife. It's not just foxes, its skunks, raccoons, and groundhogs. This is not new but with the weather and holiday coming up we might see more exposure," Health officials said during a press conference.
The department said if residents believe their pet came into contact with a fox should reach out to their vet and Forsyth County Animal Services.
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