Rabid fox bites patron at Six Flags America
County's health department searching for people who had contact with animal
Prince George's County Health Department officials are looking for anyone who came in contact with a rabid fox that bit a patron last week at Six Flags America.
The fox, which bit a patron June 26, was caught two days later and sent to the State of Maryland laboratory for a rabies test, which was positive, said Erin Bradley, a spokeswoman for the county's health department.
"Because rabies is a highly transmittable and treatable disease, the health department is taking all measures to locate any individuals that may have come in contact with this infected fox or any other infected animal," said Donald Shell, health officer for Prince George's County, in a statement.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the county's health department was unaware of any other people or animals infected by the fox, Bradley said.
Julia Filz, a spokeswoman for Six Flags America, did not have any specific information Friday afternoon about the bite.
"We are aware and we certainly are thinking about the person involved," Filz said. "It is quite a rare occurrence."
If bitten and infected, animals may become aggressive, stagger, have convulsions, foam at the mouth, have gradual paralysis or a change in voice. Pet owners who notice a wound and do not know the source of the wound should call their veterinarian immediately.
Any person or animal who may have come in contact with the fox should call the county's health department at 301-583-3750.
After normal work hours, on the weekend or holidays, call 240-508-5774.
E-mail Liz Skalski eskalski@gazette.net.