There has been a drastic increase in rabies cases in Navajo County so far this year.
The Arizona Department of Health Services says nine gray foxes have tested positive for rabies in Navajo County; several more animals have been tested but results are pending. There were only two confirmed cases in all of 2023, including a fox and a dog.
Rabies can be transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals. According to Arizona Game and Fish, signs of infection include animals acting aggressively or erratically.
County health officials advise seeking immediate care if you’ve been exposed. Rabies is preventable but can become fatal if not treated. Symptoms include seizures, hallucinations and paralysis.
