FOXES

Dear Editor,

I should like to point out that one of the reasons for continuing to regard foxes as vermin is their connection with human diseases.

Toxocariasis is the most common disease they can transmit and it is caused by a parasitic roundworm in the fox. Humans can become infected with toxocara by accidentally swallowing the infected Toxocara eggs. This is why crawling babies and toddlers are most at risk.

Domestic cats and dogs are prone to a form of this disease as well, so cleaning up after their fouling is just as important as cleaning up fox faeces. As soon as possible, use a poop scoop and bag and deposit it in a safe and secure bin. Other diseases that foxes are also susceptible to are Weil's disease (Leptospirosis), Hydatid disease, Sarooptic Mange and fleas and ticks. Fortunately in Britain we are rabies-free and have the best fox population in Europe .

I would urge readers to stop feeding foxes. They can also play havoc in your garden digging in lawns, flower beds and vegetable patches.

Thoughts of a countryman in town (name and address supplied).