A fox in the north Columbus area tested positive for rabies. What residents need to know
A fox on Autumnleaf Court in Columbus has tested positive for rabies, the West Central Health District announced Wednesday.
Autumnleaf Court is a residential street in the Autumnridge neighborhood located off of Whitesville Road.
When exposed to rabies, humans can experience a variety of symptoms including early nonspecific symptoms, acute neurological symptoms, and, ultimately, death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The first symptoms of rabies may be very similar to those of the flu including general weakness or discomfort, fever, or headache. As the disease progresses, the person may experience delirium, abnormal behavior, hallucinations, hydrophobia (fear of water), and insomnia
The health department is advising residents and visitors in the Autumnleaf Court area take the following precautions to protect themselves:
Do not pick up or handle any stray or wild animals.
Report any animal bites and/or scratches to Columbus Animal Control and the Columbus Environmental Health Office.
Contact Columbus Animal Control to report any animals which are behaving strangely or aggressively.
If your pet or livestock is behaving differently, contact your local veterinarian immediately.
Teach children about the dangers of stray and wild animals.
Have your pets vaccinated for rabies.
If you have been bitten or scratched by any animal, the health department advises following these steps:
Wash and rinse the wound thoroughly for several minutes.
Apply a disinfectant.
Seek medical attention immediately.
Report the bite to Columbus Animal Control or the Columbus Environmental Health Office.
Residents can contact the following agencies for more information or help:
- Columbus Animal Control: 706-653-4512
- Columbus Dept. of Public Health / Environmental Health office: 706-321-6170
- Georgia Poison Control: 800-222-1222
- Emergencies and after business hours: 911 (dial only if in a medical emergency)
