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Oakland Co. Health Division reports confirmed case of rabies in skunk

Posted at 5:11 PM, Apr 18, 2018
and last updated 2018-04-18 17:11:45-04

The Oakland County Health Division reports a confirmed case of rabies in a skunk removed from Rochester Hills. 

The Health Division strongly urges residents to reduce rabies exposure by staying away from wild animals such as skunks, bats, raccoons, foxes and stray cats and dogs.

"Our natural instinct is to befriend and pet an animal that seems friendly or help one that is injured,” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County. “But as a rule, avoid stray and wild animals to protect yourself against rabies.”

The Health Division says if a wild animal is found behaving strangely, call the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center at 248-391-4102 . 

If bitten by any wild animal, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. 

To report an animal bite, call the Health Division at 248-858-1286.

The rabies virus is found in the saliva of infected animals and is spread through bites or scratches. The following steps can be taken to protect yourself from rabies:

  • Have pets vaccinated regularly.
  • Do not handle stray, wild or dead animals
  • Call local animal control experts for help if an animal is acting strangely, including: Having problems swallowing, exhibiting lots of drool or saliva, appearing tamer than you would expect, biting at everything and/or having trouble moving.
  • Keep pets indoors or supervised to limit their exposure to wild animals that may be rabid.
  • Use a leash when walking dogs or keep them in a fenced-in yard.
  • Do not feed or put water for pets outside
  • Keep garbage securely covered, as these items may attract wild or stray animals.