Skunk Public Health Concerns
The diseases or parasites associated with skunk populations in Washington are rarely a risk to humans. Canine distemper, a disease that affects domestic dogs, is found in skunk populations. Have your dogs vaccinated for canine distemper to prevent them from contracting the disease.
Skunks may also be infected with the bacterial disease tularemia.
Never approach a skunk that appears to be ill, is overly friendly, or approaches you. If a person is bitten or scratched by a skunk, immediately scrub the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Flush the wound liberally with clean tap water. (In other parts of the United States skunks can carry rabies.) Contact your physician and the local health department immediately. If your pet is bitten, follow the same cleansing procedure and contact your veterinarian to ensure that your pet has proper protection.
Anyone handling a skunk should wear rubber gloves, and wash their hands well when finished.
Skunks may also be infected with the bacterial disease tularemia.
Never approach a skunk that appears to be ill, is overly friendly, or approaches you. If a person is bitten or scratched by a skunk, immediately scrub the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Flush the wound liberally with clean tap water. (In other parts of the United States skunks can carry rabies.) Contact your physician and the local health department immediately. If your pet is bitten, follow the same cleansing procedure and contact your veterinarian to ensure that your pet has proper protection.
Anyone handling a skunk should wear rubber gloves, and wash their hands well when finished.
This information was provided by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Russell Link, and Michael Holmquist
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