Chatsworth child charged by rabid fox
(MGN)
CHATSWORTH, Ga. (WDEF) — A Chatsworth child was attacked by a fox with rabies, according to Murray County Environmental Health officials.
On Thursday, June 15, a child was playing in their yard on Will Evans Road when a fox appeared. Officials state the child was spooked by the fox and fell. At that point, the fox charged the child.
The child kicked the fox and received an abrasion. The child’s parents cornered it and called the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR officers put the fox down.
On Wednesday, June 21, the Georgia Public Health Lab confirmed the fox tested positive for rabies.
A Murray County environmental health manager recommended the child get vaccinated for rabies exposure. The parents proceeded to take the child to the emergency room.
The Murray County Environmental Health Department sent a notice to the public about the potential rabies exposure. The notice included instructions for the public.
“Please use caution if you see any wild animals exhibiting strange behaviors. Please protect your animals with rabies boosters every year. Make sure their rabies vaccines are current at this time, and don’t forget about your livestock.”
The health department urges the public to contact their office if there are any sightings or exposures at 706-695-0266.
