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White County's fourth confirmed rabies case of the year was reported this past week in the West Underwood Street area of Cleveland.
White County's fourth confirmed rabies case of the year was reported this past week in the West Underwood Street area of Cleveland.
A homeowner said a dog had killed a fox that had gotten into a fenced enclosure on Monday, Nov. 11, according to White County Environment Health Manager Sean Sullivan. The incident was reported to health officials the following day, and the fox was picked up and sent to the Georgia Public Health Lab in Decatur on Wednesday, Nov. 3. The state lab called Sullivan at 4:43 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15, to confirm the fox tested positive for the rabies virus.
Sullivan said the dog is current on rabies vaccinations but will be under a required observational quarantine of 45 days. Positive alert signs will be posted in the area where the rabid fox was located. Those who live in this area and have concerns of rabid animal exposure should contact White County Environmental Health at 706-348-7698 during normal business hours.
Animal owners are encouraged to vaccinate their domesticated pets for rabies. Call a local veterinarian for an appointment.