Rabies Advisory Issued in Pinal County
Pinal County officials have recently issued a rabies advisory following the confirmation of a positive test in a grey fox in Maricopa, located in the western region of the county.
Residents are being urged to steer clear of wildlife, especially if the animals appear to be acting unusually. If anyone comes across an unstable animal, they should reach out to the Arizona Game and Fish Department at 800-352-0700.
This announcement follows another incident where a bobcat in Gila County tested positive for rabies, marking it as at least the second case confirmed in the state for the year 2025.
Other highlighted areas where rabies has been reported this year include Fort Huachuca, near Sierra Vista, and Cochise County. There have been multiple reports of individuals attacked by rabid foxes in the vicinity of Pastoral Valley, Reservoir Hill, and Ren Arena. Authorities have not provided further comment on these incidents at this time.
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, out of the 117 wildlife cases confirmed in 2024, 29 were foxes and three were bobcats.
Understanding Rabies
Rabies is an infectious disease that impacts the nervous system and can lead to severe brain ailments and potentially death. Although primarily found in wildlife, it can affect all mammals, including humans.
Human Exposure Risks
Humans can contract rabies via bites or wounds from infected animals. While exposure is serious and potentially life-threatening, immediate medical consultation can prevent death.
In 2024, 41 people were exposed to rabies in Arizona. The CDC indicates that the majority of rabies-related human fatalities in the U.S. are linked to contact with bats, with the same source noting that seven of the ten deaths involved bat interactions.
Other animals that may pose a risk include coyotes, foxes, raccoons, and skunks. Wild animals can also spread rabies to pets like dogs and cats, as well as livestock.
People can be exposed to rabies through:
- Contact with skunks.
- Exposure to blood, urine, or feces from potentially infected animals.
- Handling potentially rabid animals without proper precautions.
- Interactions with wild animals.
Recognizing Symptoms
The initial signs of rabies often manifest as behavioral changes in affected animals. They may seem more aggressive, agitated, or unusually tame, and can exhibit symptoms such as excessive drooling, vomiting, or seizures.
In humans, symptoms can take days to weeks to appear and might initially resemble flu-like symptoms. Severe neurological symptoms often follow within about two weeks.
Some symptoms to watch for include:
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Delirium
- Excessive saliva
- Hydrophobia
- Hallucinations
- Nausea
- Paralysis
Treatment Options
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to rabies, contact your local public health department immediately. Animals will need to be quarantined and monitored for symptoms, with a veterinarian likely needing to reassess them during the quarantine period.
Federal guidelines recommend euthanasia for most wild animals suspected of rabies. Vaccines are available for dogs and cats, and it’s advisable for these pets to receive vaccinations starting at three months old, with boosters required periodically.
If you think you’ve been exposed to rabies, wash the area with soap and water and seek medical advice right away. Health officials will likely administer post-exposure treatment (PEP), which can include rabies immunoglobulin and a series of vaccines.
Vaccination for Pets
According to state laws, dogs must be vaccinated against rabies, while vaccinations for cats and other pets are not mandated but are highly recommended if available.
Pinal County Animal Care and Control provides a reduced-cost rabies vaccination clinic for $10, while Maricopa County offers the vaccine for $25, excluding license fees.
What to Do If You Suspect Rabies
If you observe an animal acting strangely, it’s best to keep your distance. Do not attempt to touch or feed unfamiliar animals, especially those that seem sick or injured.
Keep domestic pets away from wildlife and avoid leaving pet food outside.
Report any suspected rabid animals to local animal control and inform the county health department about any bites from potentially rabid animals. For more information, you can also contact your local animal management office or health department.
