Rabies is increasing in wildlife along Colorado’s Front Range, placing both humans and animals at risk for this deadly disease.

Rabies is a viral disease that causes severe inflammation in the brain and spinal cord and is nearly always fatal. Rabies is transmitted in saliva through animal bites.

Skunks and bats are the most significant sources of rabies in Colorado, but other wild animals can also be infected. Rabid animals usually show abnormal behavior, such as aggression, confusion, or lack of fear of people.

Dogs, cats, horses and livestock can become infected if they are bitten by rabid animals. Contact with infected wild or domestic animals places you and your family at risk for rabies infection. Immediate medical treatment is required if a person or domestic animal is exposed to rabies.

For more information please visit http://www.tchd.org/rabies.htm

Rabies Tri-County Health Department Presentation [pdf version]