A fox that may be infected with rabies is on the loose on Staten Island, officials said.
A safety advisory was put into effect at Mount Loretto Unique Area after state officials received a report that a visitor was bitten by a fox there Friday, authorities said. The advisory remains in effect through “at least” Monday, officials said.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation said it is monitoring the area and looking for the fox.
In the interim, the DEC is telling visitors to avoid feeding or coming into contact with animals while on the grounds.
Any sightings of foxes engaging in “unusual behavior” should be reported to DEC dispatch, according to the agency.
The warning comes months after a rabid coyote attacked three people and six dogs in the Eastchester and Bronxville area of Westchester County. The coyote later tested positive for rabies, according to local health officials.
Rabies is rare in humans but endemic among New York wildlife, according to the state Department of Health. The virus is most commonly found in raccoons, skunks, bats and foxes, as well as free-roaming cats. State health officials said 313 wild and domestic animals tested positive for rabies in New York last year.
People who are bitten by an animal should wash the bite and surrounding area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately, according to state health officials. Prompt treatment after exposure can prevent rabies.
DEC did not immediately respond to requests for comment.