What Diseases Do Foxes Carry and What Are Some Symptoms of a Sick Fox?

People who live in the countryside will normally encounter fox. The foxes are usually cautious when there is a presence of human activity. They do not show any sign of aggression and some people might think that it is perfectly safe to be near them. However, study shows that foxes are possible carriers of disease.



The Disease and Symptoms That Foxes Carry
Although some foxes may carry diseases that are similar with the dogs, the rate of human transmission is significantly lower. They may carry parasites that may also carry diseases.

Toxocariasis
The most usual disease that they can carry and transmit would be Toxocariasis. This is a disease that can be transmitted by the roundworm that they carry. The worms will lay eggs and will be released through the feces of the fox. This will contaminate your soil. In severe cases, this condition may lead to blindness. This health condition can affect any people regardless of their age; however, children are mostly exposed to this risk since it is highly possible for them to come in contact with the infected soil. People infected with the disease will experience difficulty in chewing and swallowing, seizures, and extreme sensitivity.

In order to avoid this, make sure to dispose the feces of the fox properly. Encourage the kids to wash their hand immediately after they played outdoors. There are also medications that can kill the parasites. Laser treatment can eliminate the larvae in our eyes. After the treatment, most people will have a full recovery without any complications.

Mange
People can acquire mange from fox, but the possibility is significantly low. You will need to have a close contact with the animal in order for the condition to be transmitted. The sickness can be transmitted, but it will not persist for too long. People will only develop rash after being in contact with the fox that will immediately be resolved after a couple of weeks.

Fox Bites
A bite from a fox will be painful, but the possibility of acquiring infection is lower compared to the scratch of the stray cat. Wildlife rescuers and animal agencies are the people who are normally exposed to this risk. Vaccine against tetanus and antibiotics should be administered immediately. They can also carry rabies that can infect the people through scratch and bites. Some of the symptoms associated with rabies include itching, pain, nausea, discomfort, fever, and headaches. In case you suspect that there is a presence of the rabies virus, seek immediate help.

Tularemia
Fox can also carry tularaemia. The carcass of the fox and the live fox can be contaminated with the tularaemia disease. This condition can be transmitted to human through direct contact. This will lead to swelling, skin ulcers, and fevers.

In order to minimize the transmission of the disease, people should never approach, handle, or touch an alive or dead fox. In case you encounter a fox, professional can handle the wildlife removal process and prevent the spread of the disease.

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Learn more about Removal or solve a problem yourself with my How To Get Rid Of Foxes guide.