CAACO News

A skunk from Elizabeth in Elbert County tested positive for rabies last week. Another suspect skunk pending from Elizabeth now.

Per Elbert County public health—this is the furthest east that skunk rabies has been documented in their county in recent years. Thus, the below press release:

Elisabeth Lawaczeck, DVM
State Public Health Veterinarian
Communicable Disease Epidemiology Program
Disease Control and Environmental Epidemiology Division
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
303-692-2628

Elbert County Health and Environment

For Immediate Release
March 15, 2010

Public Cautioned about Skunks with Rabies

The Elbert County Health and Environment has been responding to citizen reports of odd behavior and deaths in Elbert County wildlife. In the past 12 months, 11 samples have been collected and have tested positive for Rabies virus.

The most recent sample, a skunk, was showing uncoordinated and aggressive behavior in a neighborhood on the outskirts of the town of Elizabeth.

Elbert County Health Officials urgently suggest that pet owners make sure that their cats and dogs rabies vaccinations are up to date.

Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals, resulting in a fatal disease. The virus is shed in the saliva of infected animals.

Additional precaution to prevent possible exposure to rabies include:

• Do not feed wild animals. Do not leave pet food outside, or feed more than your outdoor pet will finish in one feeding.
• Do not leave livestock feed containers open in sheds or barns. Remove junk piles from around your home that may be attractive nesting areas for wild animals.
• Teach your children to stay away from all wild animals or stray domestic animals, or any dead animals they may find.
• Do not let your pets roam freely, as this increases the chance they are exposed without your knowledge.
• If your pet is bitten, scratched or sprayed by a wild animal, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Report any dog or cat bites to your doctor or Elbert County Animal Control immediately.

Typically, raccoons and skunks are rarely seen in the daylight hours. If you see any wild animals exhibiting odd or aggressive behavior, please contact the Elbert County Animal Control officer at 303-621-2030, or Elbert County Health at 303-621-3193 or 303-621-3145.