Rabid fox warning issued after the animal control officer attacked the Galax

GALAX, Va. – Mount Rogers Health District has issued a warning in the Galax area for a fox that tested positive for rabies.

On Wednesday, a gray fox attacked an animal control officer on the 900 block of West Stuart Drive in Galax.

In a post on Facebook, officials said the fox was in an advanced state of illness and had been infectious and active in the area for more than a week.

The fox recently fought with other animals indicated by the hair of the teeth, creating additional reservoirs of diseases that can become furious in the coming months.

Health officials warn that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear.

If a person or anyone’s pet has been in contact with the gray fox, you are asked to contact the Galax Health Department at 276-236-6127.