Rabies is proven in three dead artic foxes on Svalbard. Rabies is now proven in four foxes and one reindeer in the area since the beginning of May.
The foxes were found in Ebeltofthamna in Krossfjorden, Heleysundet between Barentsøya and Spitsbergen and Vindodden, the Governor informed Thursday.
“We repeat the urgency for people to call and report to the Governor and or authorities if they see any foxes or reindeer that are displaying unusual or unnatural behavior, or dead foxes or reindeer,” says environmental manager at the Governor office, Morten Wedege.
In addition, two foxes found in the Horsund area are still waiting for analysis. The Environmental Protection Officer asks people to look for signs of aggression and passivity of foxes and paralysis of reindeer.
“We ask people to take precautions. Foxes must not be fed. Dogs must be on a lease and must not be left unattended. We also refer to the notice from Longyearbyen Hospital that anyone who has contact with wild game in Svalbard and who has not been vaccinated earlier to get vaccinated against rabies,” adds the environmental manager.
© NTB scanpix / #Norway Today
