Kerr County confirms third positive rabies case for 2024

Kerr County officials have confirmed a third positive rabies case for 2024.  Three skunks have tested positive for rabies, all within city limits, in a span of eight days (since March 8), according to Kerr County Animal Services Director Reagan Givens.  The most recent case was reported on Glenn Road in Kerrville.

KCAS received a report on Wednesday, March 13, that a family dog had found and attacked a skunk at a residence on Glenn  Road. An animal control officer retrieved the animal, humanely euthanized it and sent it to the zoological lab for disease testing.  “Confirmation from the lab came on Friday, March 15, that the skunk was positive for rabies,” said Givens.

The pet owner was notified of the protocol to be followed for their dog, since it had contact with the skunk.  If the pet has been previously vaccinated against rabies, then they should be revaccinated immediately and restrained or confined for a period of 45 days.  If the exposed pet has not been previously vaccinated against rabies, then it should be vaccinated immediately and placed into solitary confinement for 90 days, with booster shots given in the third and eighth weeks of isolation.

Givens urges all residents to stay vigilant for abnormally acting animals and make sure all pets are up to date on their vaccinations.  Citizens are asked to refrain from feeding or touching wild and stray animals.  If anyone observes an animal acting strangely, they are asked to make a note of its location and contact KCAS at (830) 247-3100.

Rabies is an RNA virus that infects the central nervous system of mammals, ultimately causing disease in the brain and eventual death.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that most reported rabies cases are found in bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes, but any mammal can get rabies.  Humans exposed to a rabid animal may face a series of shots administered over 14 days.

Anyone who has been in contact with a wild animal, especially if they have been bitten or scratched, should wash any wounds immediately with soap and water, and see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.