Squirrel Public Health Concerns
Tree squirrels carry diseases that could affect humans, but, as a practical matter, instances where squirrels have transmitted disease to humans are rare.
You may see a tree squirrel engaging in unusual behavior, such as repeatedly falling over or circling a small area. Such behavior can result from an injury, poisoning, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) caused by a parasite.
If a person is bitten or scratched by a tree squirrel, immediately scrub the wound with soap and water. Flush the wound liberally with tap water. Tree squirrels can carry tularemia.
In other parts of the United States squirrels 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. If you can place a large bucket over the squirrel and secure the bucket with a heavy object, the animal can then be held for inspection by a health official.
You may see a tree squirrel engaging in unusual behavior, such as repeatedly falling over or circling a small area. Such behavior can result from an injury, poisoning, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) caused by a parasite.
If a person is bitten or scratched by a tree squirrel, immediately scrub the wound with soap and water. Flush the wound liberally with tap water. Tree squirrels can carry tularemia.
In other parts of the United States squirrels 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. If you can place a large bucket over the squirrel and secure the bucket with a heavy object, the animal can then be held for inspection by a health official.
This information was provided by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Russell Link, and Michael Holmquist
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