It is widely believed that all Temecula skunks have rabies. This is not true. A skunk will only have rabies if it has been bitten by an infected animal. You do, however, need to be careful if you are confronted by a skunk. Even if it does not have rabies, it could still spray you. The noxious fluid could leave you temporarily blind. It also takes days to get rid of the smell.



What is rabies?
Rabies is a disease that causes inflammation in the brain. Next to racoons, California skunks are the second biggest carrier of the disease. It is a very rare disease in the United States. Only 55 cases have been reported since 1990. The incubation period is usually between 30 – 60 days. It can also be as short as 10 days or as long as a few years.

Symptoms of rabies?
Once the symptoms are present, the disease is almost always fatal. The symptoms include:
• Fever
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Hyperactivity
• Insomnia
• Partial paralysis

How to know if a skunk has rabies.
Skunks, generally, will run when confronted. They will not want to be face to face with people. However, a skunk that has been infected with rabies will lose all fear of people. They will also be aggressive, which is not usually the case. Skunks are nocturnal and will not regularly be seen out in daylight. If you see a skunk out during the day, it might be infected. The skunk will have involuntary muscle movement. It will also be drooling and salivating.

How is rabies transmitted?
Rabies is transmitted if you are bitten by a California animal infected with the disease. It can also be transmitted if the saliva of an infected skunk gets into an open wound.

How to prevent the spread.
As soon as you get bitten by a Temecula animal, you need to get vaccinated. It is a simple injection that can be administered by your doctor. Make sure your pets are vaccinated against the disease.

What to do if confronted.
If you find yourself confronted by a rabid Temecula skunk, you need to back away. The skunk will be unafraid of you and will try to bite you. Make sure to call animals services so that they can collect the animal. It is important that you not let the skunk close to your pets or children.

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