Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is issuing a public health notice about a positive test for rabies in a skunk from the downtown area.
According to VCH, a skunk from the area tested positive and apparently, a few people got bitten by the infected skunk.
“While interactions with skunks are rare, a small number of people bitten by the skunk have been assessed and received rabies vaccinations and immunoglobulin to prevent rabies,” VCH said.
“Rabies virus is found in the saliva of infected animals and can be transmitted through a bite or, less commonly, a scratch from an infected animal. Rabies virus is not transmitted through exposure to the spray, urine or feces of infected skunks,” VCH adds.
VCH also has some advice for anyone who fears they may have been bitten or scratched by the skunk, or anyone who might have handled, picked up, “or otherwise had direct contact with a sick or abnormally behaving skunk in downtown Vancouver West End and Stanley Park Area.”
VCH notes the interactions or attacks must have occurred between Sept. 22 and Oct. 17. VCH also shared a map of the area.
The darker shaded area is the area of concern. (VCH)
If you did come into contact with the skunk, contact VCH “immediately” so a health professional can assess you.
To contact VCH Public Health, call 604-675-3900, which is open Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
For after-hours calls, VCH says to visit an urgent care centre or an emergency department for assessment.
VCH also said pet owners who fear their animal may have come in contact with the rabid skunk should also contact their veterinarian “promptly,” advising them that their pet may have been exposed to a rabid skunk.
“If you observe a wild animal, including skunks, acting abnormally, please contact the BC RAPP line at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277). The animal may appear disoriented, sick or injured, or may be stumbling, active during unusual times of day, show no fear of people, or be aggressive,” VCH said.
VCH provided additional information about what to do if you believe you may have been bitten. VCH says you should wash the wound with soap and warm water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical care.