INDIANA – The Indiana State Board of Animal Health says that a skunk in Clark County has tested positive for rabies.
Officials say this is the first time in 20 years that an Indiana skunk has tested positive for the infection.
“Rabies is a very dangerous disease, but it’s completely preventable,” said Dr. Melissa Justice, a veterinarian for BOAH. “The best way to prevent rabies in people and animals is to vaccinate pets.”
Rabies is a deadly viral infection primarily spread in saliva through the bite of an infected animal. The virus is not spread through blood, urine, feces, or skunk spray.
The skunk that tested positive for rabies has died, and officials are testing it to determine the source of the infection.
Animals with rabies typically act strangely and may become aggressive and try to bite people or other animals. Some infected animals drool more than normal or “foam at the mouth,” but it’s not always the case.
No humans are suspected of being infected with rabies.
Officials urge pet owners to get them vaccinated and keep them away from wildlife in the area.
Dr. Justice offered the following tips to reduce the risk of rabies exposure:
- Avoid contact with wild animals.
- Do not feed or handle wild animals.
- Secure trash and pet food in animal-proof containers.
- Cover attic and chimney openings and other entry points in the home.
Indiana law requires all dogs, cats, and ferrets three months or older to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed vet. Contact your vet and local animal control if a wild animal bites your pet.
If you or someone in your family is bitten or scratched, attempt to confine or capture the animal if it can be done safely. An unowned biting animal should be tested.
Immediately wash the wound with soap and water, and call your healthcare provider to determine treatment. Rabies is usually fatal in humans if left untreated, but it can be treated with prompt action following a bite.
If you see a sick wild animal, report the case to the Indiana DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife Health Program at this link.
