First Case of Rabies in North American Moose Confirmed in Alaska

A moose that was stumbling and acting aggressively in western Alaska tested positive for rabies, marking the first rabies case ever detected in a moose on the continent..
The moose likely contracted the Arctic fox variant of the rabies virus from a bite by an infected fox, as rabies outbreaks are common in fox populations across Alaska.
Though rare, officials are warning the public to exercise caution when handling wildlife or game meat to avoid potential spread.
Experts say it is unlikely the discovery will lead to a rabies outbreak in the moose population, though the infected moose did display abnormal behavior like drooling, aggression, and stumbling.
Rabies is preventable with a vaccine and health officials encourage reporting any wildlife showing signs of rabies for testing and public safety monitoring.