Humans and animals can become infected with rabies by saliva from a rabid animal coming into contact with a cut or scratch, or in contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes. Any direct contact with a wild animal needs to be taken seriously even if an animal appears to be healthy. Rabies incubate in a raccoon for some time before symptoms appear. If you think you or a member of your family has been in contact with a rabid animal, wash the affected skin thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap and hot water and contact your doctor or local health department immediately. . Anyone who is exposed to rabies must be treated immediately.
Rabies is fatal if untreated.
The treatment which is safe and effective is usually a series of five injections given over a one-month period. Detecting Rabies in Animals Rabid animals may become depressed and retreat to isolated places. Wild animals, especially skunks, lose their fear of humans. The animals may show signs of paralysis such as abnormal facial expressions, drooping heads, sagging jaws or paralysed hind limbs. Some animals may show extreme excitement and aggression.