A wild animal has been attacking members of a New Hampshire community — and no one has been able to identify what it is, authorities said this week.
The Lebanon Police Department said in a statement on Sept. 1 that there were three reported animal attacks in the Centerra Park area, starting on Aug. 30. While the animal, which was reportedly behaving unusually aggressively, has not yet been identified, witnesses described it as possibly a gray fox or fisher.
The police warn that those in the Centerra Park area should use caution and remain aware of their surroundings, particularly when walking near “wooded, brush-covered, or other areas where wildlife may be present.”
“Do not approach, attempt to capture, feed, or otherwise interact with the animal,” the police department said. “Anyone who observes a fox, fisher, or other wild animal behaving aggressively, unusually, or approaching people should move to a safe location and contact the Lebanon Police Department immediately.”
It is not known whether the wild animal is infected with rabies; however, the police department said aggressive or unusual behavior can be associated with the disease. Rabies, a virus that attacks the nervous system, can affect any mammal and is one of the deadliest diseases in human history, as it is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear.
The Lebanon Police Department urges anyone who is bitten or scratched by a wild animal to “immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek prompt medical attention at a hospital or other appropriate medical facility,” where they can be evaluated for possible treatment for rabies.
About 100,000 Americans are vaccinated against rabies following a potential rabies exposure every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but there are fewer than 10 human rabies deaths reported each year.
