Rabid skunk found in Wichita

A rabid skunk has been identified in Wichita, police said Friday, and residents are being urged to make sure their pets are vaccinated against rabies.

The skunk was involved in an encounter with pets in the 4400 block of North Ironwood, Lt. Joe Schroeder said. That’s near 45th Street North and Rock Road.

While the pets who encountered the skunk were up-to-date on their vaccinations, they have been placed under home observation as a precaution. Rabies can infect warm-blooded mammals, Schroeder said, including humans.

The rabies virus is found in the saliva of an infected animal and is transmitted through bites or the contamination of an open cut. Skunks, raccoons and bats are the most common carriers of rabies in this part of the country, Schroeder said.

Rabies vaccinations “are required by law” in Kansas, Schroeder said.

Pets should be kept on a leash when outside a fenced yard, he said. All garbage containers should have tight-fitting lids. Pet food should not be left outside and the yard should be kept free of garbage and debris.

Food left outside and garbage can attract animals that are common carriers of rabies, Schroeder said.

Anyone bitten or scratched by any animal should wash the exposed site immediately with soap and water and seek immediate medical care. If a pet or resident has contact with a wild animal, they should call the animal control section at 316-350-3360.

This story was originally published February 20, 2015 at 3:32 PM with the headline "Rabid skunk found in Wichita."