Rabid fox confirmed near NC 770 in Stoneville

Rockingham County Public Health is urging residents to avoid unfamiliar or unusually behaving animals after a fox tested positive for rabies near Stoneville.

The county says it received confirmation on June 19, 2026, that a fox captured near NC Highway 770 in the Stoneville area had tested positive. Suspicious animals should be reported to Animal Control through the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office at 336-634-3300.

Residents should not approach or feed wild and stray animals, should keep garbage covered and should avoid leaving pet food outside overnight. Pet owners should keep rabies vaccinations current and contact a veterinarian immediately if a pet has contact with an animal suspected of carrying rabies.

• If bitten or scratched: Wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical care.
• Why it matters: Rabies is preventable with prompt treatment but is fatal after symptoms appear.
• Who is affected: Stoneville-area residents, pet owners and people traveling or working near the NC 770 corridor.

Residents should use the county notice and CDC rabies guidance for prevention steps rather than attempting to capture a wild animal themselves.

Source: Reporting based on Rockingham County Public Health's June 19, 2026 notice, Rabies Case in Fox Confirmed, checked June 21, 2026.