GLOUCESTER – Mayor Greg Berga and Health Commissioner Mary Ellen Rose have been notified by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health that a fox found in Gloucester has tested positive for rabies.

The fox who tested positive was found at 86 Concord Street on Wednesday, August 10.

Rabies is a serious disease and any potential exposure should be discussed with medical staff immediately. Those who were bitten, scratched, or exposed to fox saliva received high-risk exposures.

Residents are asked to be mindful of walking wild animals and pets outdoors. Do not approach or attempt to pet any outdoor animal.

If you think you or someone you know may have been in contact with this fox, contact the Massachusetts Public Health Department at 617-983-6800 (available 24 hours) or your health care provider for a risk assessment. please ask.

After exposure to rabies, prompt implementation of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent disease.

PEP consists of both rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) and vaccine. RIG helps provide immediate protection until he is given a single dose and actively responds to the vaccine by producing antibodies. His vaccine series consisted of 4 doses, the first immediately after exposure, followed by repeat doses 3, 7, and 14 days later. Persons with altered immunity should receive a booster vaccination on day 28.

If a resident believes their pet may have come into contact with a fox, please contact Gloucester Animal Control (978-281-9746) for more information.