LILBURN, Ga. — A fox who bit a resident near Wayside Court in Lilburn tested positive for rabies on Monday, according to Gwinnett County officials.
A press release from the Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement and the Gwinnett County Health Department advises residents to use caution, avoid animals behaving strangely and vaccinate their pets.
Officials said rabies can be transmitted to humans and other animals through scratches and bites from wild animals.
"All pet owners should ensure that their pets are current on rabies vaccination. According to the National Association of State Health Veterinarians, unvaccinated dogs and cats exposed to a rabid animal must be strictly quarantined for four months and vaccinated one month prior to being released," the release stated.
The rabies virus attacks the central nervous system and is almost always fatal for humans if left untreated. According to officials, early symptoms include fever, headache and weakness or discomfort. Once the disease reaches the CNS, hydrophobia can occur, officials added.
If you have been bitten or scratched by stray or suspect rabid animals, officials advise you to seek immediate preventative treatment.
Potentially exposed individuals in Gwinnett County are also asked to contact the Gwinnett County Health Department at 770-339-4260 and ask for the on-call epidemiologist and to call the Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement Bite Office at 770-339-3200 ext. 5576 to report the animal and have it picked up.