Rabid skunk found in Central Kentucky. People encouraged to get rabies vaccine for pets
A rabid skunk was found recently in Jessamine County, health department officials said.
The skunk was found on East Hickman Road. The health department reported the positive rabies test Monday afternoon.
No other information about the incident was immediately available. The health department encouraged people to get the current rabies vaccination for their pets.
State law requires that all dogs, cats and ferrets maintain a rabies vaccination.
“Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It can be spread to people and pets through the bites and scratches of an infected animal,” the health department said in a Facebook post. “Please take precautions with outdoor pets, wild animals, or any animal acting abnormally.”
People with questions can call the health department’s environmental office at 859-885-2310.
Rabies is a viral disease that is transmitted primarily through animal bites. Once symptoms appear, which can happen anywhere from a few days to a year after exposure, rabies is virtually 100% fatal. Immediate medical attention is critical after a suspected rabies exposure.
Along with bats, raccoons and foxes, skunks are among the most commonly infected animals in the U.S.
A rabid skunk was found in southern Lexington in January. At the time, health department officials didn’t think the skunk had any contact with pets in the area.
