State of Montana Newsroom
Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies in Big Horn County
On Tuesday, June 15ᵗʰ, the Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL) received confirmation of the third case of terrestrial (non-bat) rabies in the state this year.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 16, 2021
CONTACT:
Dr. Anna Forseth, MT Dept. of Livestock, (406) 444-2939, anna.forseth@mt.gov
Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies in Big Horn County
Helena, Mont. – On Tuesday, June 15ᵗʰ, the Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL) received confirmation of the third case of terrestrial (non-bat) rabies in the state this year. The rabies-infected skunk was in Big Horn County and was submitted for testing after it was found acting aggressively toward an individual near their home.
In response, MDOL has issued a 60-day county-wide quarantine in Big Horn County for dogs, cats and ferrets that are not currently vaccinated for rabies (MCA Title 81, Chapters 2 and 20). The quarantine is in effect from Tuesday, June 15ᵗʰ until Saturday, August 14ᵗʰ. Animals past-due for a rabies vaccine booster, animals that are not 28-days past the date of first vaccine administration, and animals that have never been vaccinated are all subject to the quarantine.
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can spread through the saliva of an infected animal. The virus can infect any mammal, including people. However, it is virtually 100% preventable in domestic animals through the administration of rabies vaccine. Non-vaccinated animals that are exposed to rabid or potentially rabid wild animals may be subject to an extended isolation and quarantine.
The most common animals infected with rabies in Montana are bats but cases involving terrestrial species do occur. The last documented cases of terrestrial (non-bat) rabies in Big Horn County was in February 2020. Residents should report any contact between a pet and a wild animal, including skunks and bats, to their veterinarian or the MDOL to ensure potential rabies exposure are assessed for risk and managed accordingly.
“This is yet another reminder that rabies is present in Montana wildlife populations,” says Dr. Anna Forseth with the Department of Livestock. “This may be the beginning of an active rabies season and we are asking pet owners to make sure their animals are properly vaccinated.”
The mission of the Montana Department of Livestock is to control and eradicate animal diseases, prevent the transmission of animal diseases to humans, and to protect the livestock industry from theft and predatory animals. For more information on the MDOL, visit www.liv.mt.gov.