Lviv: Residents are increasingly noticing wild foxes in the city — doctors warn about rabies and remind about vaccination.

In Lviv, the appearance of wild foxes on city streets is becoming increasingly common. Previously, these predators emerged from forest and park areas mainly at night, but now they are increasingly being seen during the day. Specifically, on October 7, residents reported seeing a fox in the area of Vynna Hora and the Kільцева дорога (Ring Road).

Doctors warn: it is strictly prohibited to approach wild animals, feed them, or attempt to photograph them, as it is visually impossible to determine whether an animal is infected with rabies.

According to the Lviv Regional Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, as of October 7, anti-rabies vaccines for preventing rabies after contact with potentially infected animals are available in medical institutions in the region. Specifically, at the "Multiprofessional Clinical Hospital of Intensive Treatment and Emergency Medical Assistance" in Lviv — 141, a dose is available; at the "Children's Clinical Centre" — 133, a dose is available; at the Yuriy Lypa Hospital in Novo Yavoryv, — 66, a dose is available; at the Sheptytsky Central City Hospital — 48, a dose is available; at the Stryi Central District Hospital — 35, a dose is available; and at the Busk Central District Hospital — 25. LUE_J__, at the Zolochiv Central District Hospital — 23, at the Drohobych City Hospital No. 1 — 22, at the Sambir Central Hospital — 6. There are no vaccines available at the Lviv Regional Hospital for veterans and political prisoners named after Yu. Lypa. Before visiting, doctors advise calling the emergency department to inquire about the availability of the medication.

Over 8 months of 2026 year, 39 cases of rabies among animals were registered in Lviv region – which is 17% less than in the same period last year (47 cases). The majority of cases, 17, or 43,59%, are in the Lviv district. Among the infected animals: domestic dogs – 13 cases (33,33%), domestic cats – 13 (33,33%), foxes – 9 (23,08%), and other animals – 4 (10,26%).

Scars is an incurable viral disease that affects the central nervous system. Once the first symptoms appear, it is impossible to save the person, but timely post-exposure prevention can completely prevent the disease. The virus is transmitted through saliva during a bite, scratch, or when saliva comes into contact with damaged skin or mucous membranes. The incubation period usually lasts from 2 to 3 months, but can vary from a week to a year. The complete vaccination course consists of 5 injections: on the day of the visit, as well as on the 3, 7, 14, and 28 days; in severe cases, the doctor additionally prescribes anti-rabies immunoglobulin.

Even a healthy animal can carry the virus externally, so vaccination begins immediately. After a cat or dog is identified, a 10-day veterinary observation period is established, and if the animal remains healthy, the course of treatment may be stopped at the doctor's discretion. In the event of a bite, scratch, or saliva contact with damaged skin, the affected area should be immediately rinsed with running water and soap for 15 minutes, followed by antiseptic treatment and immediate consultation with a doctor.

Consultations regarding anti-rabies assistance and the availability of vaccines for humans can be obtained by calling 099 639 80 78. For animals exhibiting aggressive or unusual behavior, you can report this to the State Service of Consumer Protection round-the-clock at 050 230 04 28. Pet owners are reminded of the need to vaccinate their pets annually against rabies.