Silk Hope, NC – A fox that behaved aggressively toward a resident on Silk Hope-Lindley Mill Road on Saturday, June 6, has tested positive for rabies.
At approximately 9:30 a.m. on June 6, deputies responded to the 1400 block of Silk Hope-Lindley Mill Road near the intersection of Will Brown Road after a woman reported that a fox had charged at her while she was walking in her driveway. The fox emerged from a culvert beside the driveway and ran toward her.
The woman was able to restrain the fox until firefighters from the Silk Hope Fire Department arrived. Firefighters then secured the animal until deputies arrived on scene. The fox was euthanized and submitted for rabies testing.
No one was bitten or scratched during the incident.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, but prompt medical evaluation after a possible exposure can prevent illness.
Health officials generally consider bites, scratches, or contact with the saliva of a rabid animal through broken skin or the eyes, nose, or mouth to be potential exposures. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed should seek medical advice immediately.
The Chatham County Public Health Department has contacted the woman involved and the two firefighters who assisted at the scene to evaluate any potential exposure and determine whether preventive treatment is needed.
Vaccinating pets is one of the most important protections against rabies.
North Carolina law requires rabies vaccination for dogs, cats, and ferrets. Keeping pets vaccinated helps protect them, their owners, and the community by reducing the risk that rabies can spread from wildlife to domestic animals and people.
“We appreciate the quick actions of the Silk Hope firefighters who helped secure the animal and protect those involved,” said Sheriff Mike Roberson. “This incident serves as an important reminder that rabies remains present in our wildlife population. Keeping pets vaccinated and avoiding contact with wild animals are among the best ways to protect both animals and people.”
Residents should also:
• Avoid approaching or handling wildlife, especially animals acting unusually tame, aggressive, or disoriented.
• Keep pets vaccinated and supervised outdoors.
• Report suspicious wildlife behavior to local authorities.
• Seek medical advice immediately if bitten, scratched, or exposed to the saliva of a potentially rabid animal.