Just like humans, Billings fox can also carry diseases. They can be infected with pathogens and viruses that can be transmitted to humans. This is why you need to pay attention to their related symptoms. You will be able to minimize the possibility of contracting the disease if you stay away from the fox that is possibly carrying the disease. In this article, we will list some of the common diseases that can affect fox as well as their related symptoms.

Disease and Symptoms of a Sick Fox

In order to be certain about the safety of the Montana people and their pets, it is best not to approach, handle, and touch any dead or alive wildlife fox. Whether they are showing symptoms or not, it is still recommended to call the assistance of the wildlife professionals.

Rabies

Perhaps a disease that is usually associated with Billings fox would be rabies. Being bitten by an infected fox will make human and pets susceptible to the disease. An infected fox will usually show no fear towards human. They will also be unresponsive and will appear unaware about what’s happening in their environment. They may show some signs of lethargy. Early symptoms of rabies will include itching on the bite site, pain, nausea, discomfort, fever, and headache.

Tularemia

Apart from rabies, another common disease of Montana fox would be Tularemia. The microorganism that causes tularemia is highly persistent. It can survive in the body of even a deceased fox. You can contract this disease through a direct interaction with the skin. This is parasitic bacteria that reside on the body of the host. This will immediately multiply and may cause various illnesses. Some of the symptoms of Tularemia will include sudden fever, jaundice, lethargy, and tick infestation. You should be careful when dealing with the carcass of the fox. Wear gloves and mask or if possible just let the professional handle the disposal of the dead fox.

Lyme disease

Lyme disease has been affecting a range of animals in various parts of the globe such as Montana fox. The bacteria which carry this disease will survive in woodland areas. This will be contracted by humans through the bites of the ticks. Fox and coyotes are the primary carrier of the Lyme disease. While the ticks that carry them are known as deer ticks, they will generally acquire the disease from the smaller mammals. The foxes will then attack these smaller mammals that will make them vulnerable to this disease.

The disease of the Billings fox can be transmitted to humans, which is why you need to be careful in dealing with them. When you have a fox invasion, it is best to maintain a good distance from them. Contact the professionals and allow them to perform the removal. In case you encounter a dead fox in your property, you should avoid interacting with the body since there are bacteria carrying diseases that may still survive on a dead body. Let the experts handle the preparation and the disposal of the carcass.