Already in 2008, Colorado has reported 15 cases of rabies in animals we don’t normally see rabies in – 15 cases, including 13 skunks, 1 raccoon, and now, a cat. That's according to the El Paso County Health Department.

Eastern Colorado is experiencing a resurgence of rabies in skunks and the infection is also being spread between skunks and other animals, including a raccoon and a cat.

The number of rabies cases being seen is the highest than any point in at least 20 years.

Rabies in skunks or other wild animals markedly increases the chance that a person or pet could get exposed to rabies. Several of the rabid skunks have been in fights with domestic dogs. Without medical intervention soon after exposure, rabies is fatal. There is no cure once symptoms occur.

Dr. Bernadette Albanese, MD says, "Knowledge of the disease can help you protect your family and pets."

Rabies infection is spread primarily through the bite of rabid animals, or when saliva from an infected animal gets into open wounds or cuts, or enters into the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Rabies is always around in certain animals rarely seen or touched by people – in our area rabies most often infects bats.

The State Health Department is very concerned that rabies in wild animals could be spreading west, potentially into the eastern sections of our county or even further west.

The El Paso County Health Department is participating with the state in a study that involves testing dead skunks along roadsides in our area for exposure to rabies. So far in 2008, the skunks tested have been negative for rabies.

Take these steps to protect yourself, your family and your pets.

Make sure that your dogs and cats are vaccinated for rabies, especially if they are likely to be outdoors. Rabies in cats and dogs has been extremely low for several decades because of widespread vaccination of domestic pets. But if skunk rabies continues to spread, our pets may now be at increased risk and could pose a danger to people.

Don’t feed wild animals or allow your pets around them. Be sure to teach your children to stay away from wild animals.

Contact your veterinarian if your dog or cat is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, such as skunks, bats, foxes or raccoons.

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to rabies, contact your physician immediately. Preventive medication is available to persons who have been exposed to rabies.

If you find a dead skunk, stay away from it if you can. If it’s on your property and you need to remove it, do not touch the animal directly. Instead, lift the carcass with a shovel or other tool, and double-bag it for the trash.

For more information on the spread of rabies and protective tips, you can check out the El Paso County Health Department's website by clicking on the link below.