BETHEL, NY — A euthanized fox in the Town of Bethel tested positive for the rabies virus, according to the Sullivan County Department of Public Health.

Exposed individuals are receiving appropriate treatment, the health department said.

Rabies is common throughout New York State, primarily affecting wild animals such as raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, and woodchucks. Domestic animals account for less than 10 percent of reported rabies cases, with cats, cattle, and dogs being the most affected. To protect your pets, keep them  up-to-date on vaccinations and indoors when not on a leash.

The health department will hold its next free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats, and ferrets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 5, at Morningside Park in Hurleyville.

Protect yourself against rabies

Take steps to protect yourself against rabies:

• Ensure your pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations. Vaccines for dogs, cats, and ferrets over three months old are effective for one year, with revaccinations lasting up to three years.
• Keep young, unvaccinated pets indoors.
• Avoid separating fighting animals. Wear gloves if handling your pet after a fight.
• Keep family pets indoors at night and prevent them from roaming freely.
• Avoid attracting wild animals by securing bird seed, food garbage, and other potential attractants.
• Board up openings in your home to prevent animal entry.
• If bitten by an animal, seek treatment promptly and report contact with wild animals to the Sullivan County Department of Public Health. 

For more information, call the Disease Surveillance and Investigation Department of Sullivan County Public Health at 845-292-5910.