A skunk in Weld County examined optimistic for rabies for the primary time since 2023, the county introduced Friday afternoon.
The skunk was discovered Tuesday on a residential property east of Eaton, a county information launch stated. The animal was noticed to be displaying irregular conduct close to livestock, main the property proprietor to contact animal management and the Weld County Division of Public Well being and Setting.
Rabies is a viral illness and practically 100% deadly as soon as signs start, in line with the county. Bats and skunks are the commonest carriers of the virus in Colorado, however it might additionally have an effect on different wildlife together with foxes, raccoons and coyotes.
Exercise in the course of the day, aggressive conduct or displaying poor coordination might be indicators a skunk has rabies.
Rabies spreads to folks and pets by means of bites and scratches of an contaminated animal.
There has by no means been a human loss of life from rabies within the county. A number of dozen folks have required preventative remedy following contact with wild animals, together with 21 who were exposed in 2018 after a girl in southern Weld County introduced a child raccoon into her residence. The animal had been deserted by its mom.
The case was the biggest rabies publicity ever skilled by the county, well being division officers stated on the time.
Those that suppose they’ve been uncovered to rabies ought to contact a health care provider instantly. Efficient remedy is out there if given earlier than signs seem.
Pet homeowners are urged to have all home animals — canines, cats, horses and livestock — vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian. Unvaccinated pets that are available contact with a rabid animal are required to be euthanized or quarantined for 120 days on the proprietor’s expense.
To stop publicity to rabies, the county additionally recommends:
- Don’t feed, contact or deal with wild animals
- Intently watch an unvaccinated pet or kitten whereas it’s exterior till the animal has been vaccinated and for 28 days after the vaccination
- Spay or neuter pets to cut back the variety of undesirable or stray animals in a neighborhood.
For extra data or if pets have are available contact with a wild animal, contact the county well being division at 970-400-2290. Further data on rabies is out there at weld.gov/go/zoonosis.
