Imperial, Neb - Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD) has confirmed a positive case of rabies in a skunk found in Chase County. Officials are reminding the public to be cautious around wild or unfamiliar animals, especially as warmer weather increases outdoor activity for both people and wildlife.
“Animals are out and about now that the weather is warmer, and animal moms may be very protective of new babies,” said Melissa Propp, RN, Clinic Manager at SWNPHD. “If you see a wild animal or an animal you don’t know, give it plenty of space and admire it from a distance. This helps keep you and the animal safe.”
Skunks are among the most common carriers of rabies in southwest Nebraska. Rabies is a fast-moving, deadly disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is typically spread through the saliva of an infected animal, most often via bites.
SWNPHD urges the public to be on the lookout for animals showing unusual or aggressive behavior. Signs of rabies in animals may include:
- Sudden aggression or hostility
- Changes in normal behavior (e.g., nocturnal animals active during the day)
- Nervousness or irritability
- Difficulty eating or drinking
- Excessive drooling
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that rabies is a medical emergency. Anyone who may have been exposed should immediately wash the area with soap and water and seek medical care. Quick action is critical, as rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear.
To protect against rabies, SWNPHD strongly encourages pet and livestock owners to keep animals up to date on rabies vaccinations. “Vaccination is the best way to prevent rabies exposure,” added Propp.
For questions about rabies vaccination, testing, or potential exposure, contact SWNPHD at 308-345-4223. The department serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties.
Additional resources and health information can be found at www.swhealth.ne.gov or by following SWNPHD on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.