The Dangers of Rabies in Wildlife: A Growing Concern in Indiana and Kentucky
Rabies is a viral disease that can affect mammals, including wildlife species, domestic animals, and humans. It is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, often via bites or scratches. While rabies is a deadly disease that affects the brain and central nervous system, it is preventable if the proper steps are taken.
In recent years, the rise of rabies cases among wildlife in states like Indiana and Kentucky has become a growing concern. As human-wildlife interactions increase, particularly as more people live near wooded or rural areas, the potential for exposure to rabies also increases. It's essential for residents of these states to be aware of the risks, the signs of rabies in animals, and the appropriate actions to take if they come into contact with a suspected infected animal.
The Increasing Incidence of Rabies in Indiana and Kentucky Wildlife
Over the past decade, rabies cases in wildlife populations have been on the rise in Indiana and Kentucky. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both states have experienced an uptick in rabies cases within raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes—species that are common carriers of the virus.
From 2015 to 2024, Indiana saw an average of 45 rabid animals reported annually, with skunks and bats being the most frequent culprits. In Kentucky, the numbers were slightly higher, with an average of 55 rabid animals reported each year. Skunks are the most common species infected in both states, but raccoons and foxes are also significant carriers.
The rabies virus primarily spreads through bites, scratches, or exposure to the saliva of an infected animal. As urban sprawl continues to encroach on natural habitats, the likelihood of human encounters with rabid wildlife increases. These encounters pose not only a risk to humans but also to domestic pets, especially cats and dogs that are allowed outside.
How to Identify Rabies in Wildlife
If you suspect that an animal may be infected with rabies, look for the following symptoms:
Changes in Behavior: Rabid animals often exhibit strange behavior, such as aggression, lethargy, or confusion. A normally nocturnal animal, such as a bat or raccoon, might be seen during the day, displaying uncharacteristic behavior.
Physical Symptoms: Rabid animals may display excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth due to difficulty swallowing. They may also have uncoordinated movements or appear paralyzed.
Loss of Fear of Humans: Rabid animals often lose their natural fear of humans and may approach people or pets in an unusually bold manner.
Steps to Take if You Suspect an Animal is Infected
If you encounter a wild animal that is acting strangely, it's important to approach the situation carefully. Here are some steps you should take:
Do Not Approach or Handle the Animal: Rabid animals can be unpredictable and may become aggressive. Stay a safe distance away.
Contact Local Authorities: If you encounter a sick or acting-strangely animal on your property, contact local animal control, wildlife control, or your local sheriffs department. In the Evansville Indiana and Henderson Kentucky areas, Nuisance Wildlife Control can safely remove sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife from properties and bring them to veterinarians or wildlife rehabbers for proper evaluation. Their number is 812-801-7712, or you can visit their website at www.nuisancewildlifectrl.com.
Keep Pets Indoors: If the animal is on or near your property, bring your pets inside immediately to avoid potential exposure.
What to Do if You Are Bitten or Scratched by a Suspected Infected Animal
Rabies is a fatal disease if left untreated, so if you are bitten or scratched by an animal that is suspected of being infected with rabies, immediate action is crucial:
Clean the Wound Immediately: Wash the bite or scratch thoroughly with soap and water. This can help reduce the risk of infection.
Seek Medical Attention: Go to a healthcare provider or the emergency room immediately. Post-exposure rabies prophylaxis (PEP), a series of rabies vaccinations, can prevent the virus from progressing if administered soon after exposure.
Report the Incident: Contact your local animal control or public health officials to report the incident. They may need to investigate the animal’s health status or monitor it for symptoms.
Capture the Animal Safely (if possible): If you can do so without risking further injury, try to safely capture the animal (e.g., using a live trap or containment) and inform authorities. The animal will need to be tested for rabies, and knowing the animal’s status can help determine whether you need treatment.
How Nuisance Wildlife Control Can Help
If you are concerned about potential rabies exposure on your property or need help removing a sick or injured wild animal, Nuisance Wildlife Control is available to provide assistance. They specialize in the safe removal of wildlife, ensuring that animals are transported to appropriate wildlife veterinarians or rehabilitation centers for evaluation and treatment.
Nuisance Wildlife Control can be reached at 812-801-7712 or www.nuisancewildlifectrl.com for any wildlife concerns, including rabies prevention, animal removal, and safe handling of wildlife.
