Increased fox sightings in Greece

Following reports of citizens being injured by foxes, the Hellenic Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (EODY) issued public health guidance in late July 2026. The agency warned that foxes are appearing more frequently in residential neighborhoods, beaches, and recreational areas. EODY advised the public not to approach, touch, or feed the animals to prevent habituation and urged caution for children and pets. While Greece has not recorded a confirmed rabies case since May 2014, health officials recommended immediate medical evaluation for any bites or scratches.

By late August, residents in Volos and the Magnesia region of Thessaly reported even more frequent sightings of foxes in urban areas and private yards. Pavlos Stamopoulos, president of the Thessaly branch of the Panhellenic Veterinary Association, suggested these sightings may be driven by animals searching for food, such as waste or pet food, rather than a population increase. Stamopoulos noted that the increased visibility does not automatically signal a rabies outbreak, as the country maintains ongoing vaccination programs.