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Ch 4: What you need to know about wildlife diseases

Rabies

Caused by: A virus.

Most common way people catch it: Bite from an infected mammal.

Worst-case scenario: Death.

How common in the Northeast? The virus is widespread. It cycles through wildlife populations, so at times, it may be common in some species, especially skunks, raccoons, and bats. On average, rabies causes only 1–2 human deaths in the U.S. each year.

Most vulnerable groups: People with unvaccinated pets; animal handlers, especially those working with wildlife.

Rabies is a viral infection that can affect any mammal, including humans. It's most common in skunks, bats, and raccoons in the Northeast. It's extremely rare in small rodents (such as squirrels, mice, and rats), opossums, rabbits, and hares.

Rabies attacks the nervous system and is always fatal once symptoms occur. But the good news is that people and pets can be protected beforehand with vaccinations. If unvaccinated people have been exposed, the disease can still be prevented—swift medical attention is critical.

Next Section (Rabies: how do you catch it)