Rabies Alert in Waterford: Skunk Tests Positive

A skunk from the area of Avery Lane in Waterford tested positive for rabies on Monday, Nov. 23. Ledge Light Health District shared the following information in a prepared statement:

“The public should refrain from feeding or approaching any wild or stray animals,” the health district stated.

About Rabies

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm blooded animals, including people. It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus.

The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes — eyes, nose and mouth.

Anyone with questions or concerns may call Ledge Light Health District at 860-448-4882 or the Waterford-East Lyme Animal Control Officer at 860-867-6731.

Stock photo of skunk by GWP Photography, via flickr creative commons