Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies in Route 12 Area

A skunk from the area of Route 12 in Ledyard was tested and found to be positive for rabies on Friday, Feb. 6, according to a press release from the Ledge Light Health District.

The following information is from the press release.

The public should refrain from feeding or approaching any wild or stray animals. 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, mouth, etc.).

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ledge Light Health District at 448-4882 or the Animal Control Officer at (860) 464-9621.

“Please be on the lookout for wild animals that are not behaving normal,” Ledyard Animal Control said via Facebook. “Watch children while playing outside, especially after dark. And make sure pets are vaccinated! Call your local animal control or police dispatch to report suspicious animal behavior.”

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