A skunk has tested positive for rabies after biting an Oakland County resident, according to health officials.
The county is providing treatment to the resident who was bitten by the skunk on March 27. The animal was captured for testing and tested positive on March 31. The exposed resident immediately started treatment, but the county declined to identify the commmunity where the incident occurred.
Oakland County Health Officer Kate Guzmán urges residents to take all contact with wild animals seriously, seek prompt medical treatment for any bites and ensure household pets are up to date with rabies vaccines.
“This rabies case serves as a reminder to all residents that if a person or a pet is exposed to any wild or unknown animal, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water, then seek medical or veterinary attention immediately,” said Guzmán. “We recommend avoiding contact with wild or stray animals.”
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, only two other rabies cases caused by skunk bites – in Eaton and Saginaw counties – have been reported in the state this year. Skunks and bats are the most likely to carry rabies in Michigan.
Rabies is a virus that is spread to people and animals through bites and scratches from an infected animal. Rabies virus affects the central nervous system, leading to severe brain disease and death if medical care is not received before the onset of symptoms.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (preventive treatment after a bite or scratch) consists of wound care, human rabies immune globulin and a series of four to five vaccines.
Beginning April 10 rabies vaccines for dogs are free from 9 a.m. – noon on Fridays at the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center with the purchase of a dog license.For more information about rabies, visit oakgov.com/health or call the Oakland Connects Helpline at 800-848- 5533, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.