Rabid Fox Bites Two People in Separate Morning Attacks in Aberdeen, North Carolina
ABERDEEN, N.C. — Authorities in Moore County are urging residents to be on high alert after a rabid fox bit two people in separate attacks just 30 minutes apart on Monday, August 11. Both victims required medical treatment but are expected to recover, according to USA Today.
Back-to-Back Attacks in the Same Neighborhood
The first incident occurred at 8:05 a.m. along Midway Road, where one person was bitten by the fox. Just 30 minutes later, at 8:35 a.m., the same animal attacked another person on Sycamore Street, less than a mile away.
According to the Moore County Sheriff’s Office, both victims live in the area but did not know each other. Deputies from Animal Services captured the fox shortly after the second attack and sent it to the State Laboratory for rabies testing.
On Tuesday, August 12, Sheriff Ronnie Fields confirmed the test results were positive for rabies.
Victims Expected to Recover
Both individuals received immediate medical treatment, including rabies post-exposure shots. Officials have not released their names but confirmed their injuries were non-life-threatening.
“This situation could have been far worse,” Sheriff Fields said in a statement. “We urge everyone to be cautious and avoid approaching wildlife that appears aggressive or unusual.”
Safety Warnings for Residents
Wildlife experts stress that rabies is a fatal viral disease if left untreated, but it can be prevented with timely medical intervention. Residents in Aberdeen and surrounding areas are being advised to:
- Avoid contact with strange-acting or aggressive wildlife.
- Report sightings to Moore County Animal Services at 910-947-2858.
- Keep pets up to date on rabies vaccinations.
According to WildlifeHelp.org, if a wild animal is behaving aggressively in your yard but has not made contact with people or pets, contact local animal control or state wildlife agencies immediately.
Have you seen unusual wildlife activity in Moore County? Share your experiences and safety tips in the comments at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
