Rabies case confirmed in Fornof Road area of Columbus

The West Central Health District has confirmed a fox from the Fornof Road area in Columbus has tested positive for rabies, according to a news release.

Officials said the fox was tested Thursday at a state laboratory.

Residents are encouraged to contact animal control officers if any stray, domestic animals or wildlife such as bats, raccoons or foxes are seen in your area.

Residents from the Fornof Road area are also strongly advised to take the following precautions:

▪ Have all of your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies. Do not delay. See your veterinarian.

▪ Do not pick up or handle any stray dog or cat, or any wild animals. Call local animal control to pick it up.

▪ Report any animal bites and or scratches to the Health Department. During non-business hours, contact Georgia Poison Control 800-222-1222.

▪ Contact Animal Control to report any animals that are behaving strangely or aggressively.

▪ If your pet is behaving strangely or is injured, contact your local veterinarian immediately.

▪ Teach children about the dangers of stray and wild animals.

▪ If you are bitten or scratched by any animal: Wash and rinse the wound thoroughly for several minutes; apply a disinfectant; seek medical attention at once; report the animal bite and/or scratch to the Health Department.

Residents are encouraged to call the Columbus Department of Environmental Health at 706-321-6170, the Columbus Animal Control at 706-653-4512, the Georgia Poison Control at 800-222-1222 or 911 with any concerns.

This story was originally published June 9, 2017 at 6:09 PM with the headline "Rabies case confirmed in Fornof Road area of Columbus."