Healthy Tips to Prevent Rabies: Bath Fox Bite Concerns

Concerns in Bath over Rabid Fox Bite

A recent incident involving a rabid fox that attempted to bite a man in Bath has raised concerns among residents . The incident took place on June 28 along Western Ave , with the man managing to kick the animal away before alerting the police . Following the attack , authorities tracked down and killed the fox , which subsequently tested positive for rabies . This marks the first confirmed rabies case in Bath since January 2020 , despite the city having experienced several cases , particularly involving foxes , in 2019.

Increased Cases of Rabies in Maine

Bath 's recent encounter with a rabid fox comes amid a surge in rabies cases across Maine , with a total of 66 confirmed cases reported in 2023 . More than half of these cases involved raccoons , highlighting the prevalence of the disease among wildlife in the region . In 2019 , Bath witnessed a notable increase in rabies incidents compared to other communities in Maine , with 16 animals testing positive for the disease . The city recorded 18 fox attacks , with 11 resulting in bites or scratches , emphasizing the importance of vigilance when encountering potentially rabid animals.

The swift response from the Bath Police Department , coupled with the cooperation of residents , has been instrumental in containing the spread of rabies within the city . Chief Andrew Booth commended the man for his quick thinking in fending off the fox and promptly contacting the authorities . The successful identification of the rabid fox underscores the critical role of community awareness and proactive measures in mitigating the risks associated with rabies transmission.

As the city remains on high alert following the recent incident , residents are reminded to exercise caution around wildlife and report any suspicious or sick - looking animals to the authorities . Pet owners are advised to ensure their animals are up to date on rabies vaccines to safeguard against potential exposures . By remaining vigilant and proactive in addressing rabies concerns , Bath aims to minimize the impact of the disease and protect its residents from further animal bites.