Rabid Skunk Found in West Roxbury

A deceased skunk found on Stimson Street in West Roxbury was determined to have had rabies, officials with the Boston Public Health Commission said Tuesday.

Anyone who may have come in contact with the animal is asked to notify them at 617-534-5611.

“Preventative treatments are needed for anyone who suspects they’ve been in direct contact with this animal,” Dr. Anita Barry, Director of the INfectious Disease Bureau at the Boston Public Health Commission said in a statement Tuesday. “Persons who did not touch the skunk are not at any risk.”

Officials plan to post flyers in the area advising anyone who had physical contact with the animal to contact them, and issued the following information regarding rabies on Tuesday:

Rabies is a virus that attacks the brain and nervous system. The rabies virus is spread through the saliva of a rabid animal, usually because a rabid animal bites or scratches another person or animal. The virus may also get into the body through open cuts or wounds, or through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Once people get the virus, it spreads through the body and is often fatal. Prompt preventive treatment is very effective in preventing rabies in people who have been exposed.

Pets are also at risk for rabies exposure. The disease is most commonly found in bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes, but domestic animals, like dogs, cats, and ferrets, can also get rabies. If you suspect your pet has been in contact with the skunk, which may include unexplained wounds, scratches, or bite marks, an evaluation by a veterinarian is recommended. Ensure your pet is up-to-date for rabies vaccination. If you need a vaccine, Boston Animal Control offers a series of low-cost rabies vaccine clinics for dogs and cats. The next clinic is on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 from 4:00pm – 8:00pm at the Boston Animal Shelter in Roslindale. Visit cityofboston.gov/animalcontrol or call (617) 635-5348 to learn more about this clinic.

The BPHC released the following tips to help avoid contact with rabid animals:

Keep a Healthy Distance

• Do not feed or touch animals that you do not know, including all wild animals.
• Do not keep wild animals as pets – it is illegal and dangerous.
• Do not touch or pick up dead animals.
• Teach children to never approach strange animals – even baby animals can be dangerous.
• Cover and secure garbage cans and never leave pet food outside.
• Ensure all openings in your home are closed and secure to prevent wildlife from moving in.

Protect Your Pets

• Make sure your pet (dog, cat, or ferret) is up-to-date on rabies vaccination.
• Do not let your pets roam freely outdoors. Keep your dog(s) on a leash at all times.​

For more information on rabies prevention, visit www.bphc.org/rabies or call (617) 534-5611.

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