A skunk living at Shady Tree Lane in the Town of Cobleskill has tested positive for rabies.
The skunk was sent to the Wadsworth Laboratory for testing; the results were received by the Schoharie County Department of Health last Thursday, December 26.
Rabies is a virus with a 100 percent fatality rate when left untreated.
Anyone who believes they have had contact with a rabid animal or who suspects an animal is rabid, should contact Public Health at (518) 295-8365.
Human rabies can be prevented after exposure by administering a series of shots.
Under New York State law, all dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies.
If a vaccinated pet comes in contract with an animal that may have rabies, they must be given a booster rabies vaccination within five days of the contact.
Vaccination is also recommended for livestock with frequent human contact.
Public Health also advises against feeding wildlife or strays, approaching an unknown animal that’s acting strangely, and keeping garbage cans tightly covered.
All animal bites and any contact with bats should be reported to Public Health.