Gray fox rabies activity quadrupled in some Arizona counties

PHOENIX (AP) — The Arizona Department of Health Services says rabies activity in the state's gray fox populations has quadrupled in several counties.

Data shows there are 24 rabid foxes this year, compared with six rabid foxes reported statewide last year.

Six of the 24 cases were confirmed in the past two months.

State health officials say an outbreak of fox rabies is occurring in the east-central part of Arizona near recreational hiking trails and camping areas in Maricopa and Pinal counties, which includes the Superstition Mountains Wilderness Area.

Several foxes have been seen alongside trailheads and there's evidence the outbreak may be spreading to more urban areas.