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Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies After Biting Oakland County Resident, Health Officials Say
Officials said the exposed resident began treatment as the county urged pet vaccinations and warned rabies can be fatal without prompt care.
- On March 27, an Oakland County resident was bitten by a skunk in Royal Oak that tested positive for rabies on March 31. The resident is undergoing prophylactic treatment, Oakland County Health Division officials reported.
- Rabies is a viral infection attacking the central nervous system that is nearly 100% fatal if left untreated. Skunks are primary carriers of the virus in Michigan, making contact with wild animals particularly dangerous.
- Oakland County Health Officer Kate Guzman urged immediate medical care for any animal bite exposure. "Because rabies is 100% fatal, immediate care is important," Guzman said, noting that post-exposure vaccination is nearly 100% effective.
- The Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center will offer free rabies vaccines for dogs beginning April 10 on Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon with purchase of a dog license.
- State records show only two other skunk-related rabies cases reported in Michigan this year, highlighting the need for prevention. Authorities recommend keeping pets leashed, securing garbage cans, and avoiding contact with wild animals.
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Oakland County resident treated after rabid skunk bite, warning issued
PONTIAC -- An Oakland County resident is undergoing preventative treatment for rabies after being bitten by a wild skunk on March 27. The skunk tested positive for rabies on March 31, according to County Health Officer Kate Guzmán.
·Michigan, United States
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Total News Sources11
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution82% Center
Bias Distribution
- 82% of the sources are Center
82% Center
L 18%
C 82%
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