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Oakland County Confirms Rabid Skunk Bite

Free Friday dog vaccines begin April 10 to boost prevention.

Overview

  • Health officials say a skunk that bit a resident on March 27 was captured and tested positive for rabies on March 31.
  • The bitten resident has started post-exposure prophylaxis, a vaccine and antibody series that prevents rabies if given before symptoms.
  • Oakland County’s health officer urged anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or unknown animal to wash the wound with soap and water and seek medical or veterinary care right away.
  • The county animal shelter will offer free rabies shots for dogs on Fridays starting April 10 from 9 a.m. to noon with purchase of a dog license.
  • Officials note skunks and bats are frequent rabies carriers in Michigan, and they urged pet vaccination, close supervision outdoors, covered trash, and no food left outside to reduce wildlife contact.