Abilene Officials Find a Rabid Skunk Inside City Limits

Abilene city officials just issued a press release Late this afternoon. Animal control workers found a rabid skunk found in a south-side neighborhood. While city Officials are not too alarmed, they did want residents to be aware and keep a close eye on their pets.

The Press release stated:

The Texas Department of State Health Services advised Abilene Animal Services on January 19, 2017, that one skunk submitted for analysis tested positive for rabies.

 

The skunk was found near the 2900 Block of Palm in Abilene. The known individuals and animals with possible exposure have been identified and addressed.

 

Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the central nervous system. The virus is spread through the saliva of infected animals, so humans and animals can be infected through the bite of a rabid animal or by the saliva from such an animal contacting their mucous membranes or an open wound.

Such contact with a rabid animal can only be treated through a series of shots administered by a healthcare professional.

“The discovery of one rabid skunk is not cause for alarm, but it highlights the importance of making sure that our pets are current on their rabies vaccine,”
Source: Animal Services Director Mirenda Walden

The video above shows a skunk that is well into the advanced stages of rabies. Pet's water and food dishes should be replaced or at the very least cleaned thoroughly.

To report suspicious animal activity and/or suspected rabid animal contact Abilene Animal Services at 698-0085.