Fox in New Hartford Tests Positive For Rabies

The Oneida County Health Department says a fox has tested positive for rabies after coming in contact with two New Hartford residents.

One resident was bitten by the animal while walking along a road while the second resident was approached by the fox and bitten as they exited a vehicle at their home in the same area.

The fox was sent to the State Department of Health Wadsworth Lab for testing, where positive results were reported today.

The two residents were immediately started on rabies Post Exposure treatment, which is a vaccine given over a 14-day period.

"This is the second case in a week of an animal testing positive for rabies in our community," said Oneida County Director of Health, Phyllis Ellis. "It is extremely important that residents are attentive to basic safety measures for the protection of their families and pets."

A rabid skunk was found in Vernon.

For a schedule of rabies clinics, contact the Oneida County Health Department at 315 798-5064 or log onto our web site at ocgov.net.