Rabid skunk in Cambridge triggers public health wildlife warning

Regional public health is reminding people to avoid contact with wildlife after a skunk in Cambridge tested positive for rabies. 

Public health said one person in the region has had exposure to the skunk, but has since received medical attention.

Public health is reminding people to not approach or touch wild, sick or unfamiliar animals, even if they seem friendly. Public health adds people should not feed wild or stray animals and to supervise pets when outdoors and to keep them on a leash, especially when walking on trails.

"Vaccinate your pet against rabies. It's the law to vaccinate all cats and dogs over three months old," Region of Waterloo Public Health said in a release.

"Rabies affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans, and is spread through the bite, lick or scratch from an infected animal."

Rabies is a preventable disease, but can be fatal if a person who is exposed doesn't get appropriate medical care after a potential rabies exposure, officials said.

Public health said people should wash the area they were exposed to with soapy water, call public health and seek medical advice.