MA Experts Warn About Rabies, Distemper Threat From Raccoons, Skunks

CHELMSFORD, MA — Newhouse Wildlife Rescue is warning locals that sick raccoons and skunks could be carrying rabies and distemper, diseases that could spread to humans and other animals.

The Chelmsford-based wildlife rescue said it has received a number of calls lately from people seeing sick and injured raccoons and skunks.

Newhouse said these conditions are to be expected because it is mating season and males are fighting over females and breeding with them.

"All of this interaction is increasing the likelihood of viruses spreading among these species," Newhouse said in a statement on social media. "Distemper and rabies are two viruses we need to be extra cautious about."

Newhouse said rabies can be deadly to both humans and pets. Distemper, meanwhile, is not a threat to humans, but can be deadly to cats and dogs.

The rescue said there are several symptoms that could indicate a raccoon, skunk or other animal is suffering from either distemper or rabies. These signs are:

• Lethargic
• Laying around out in the open
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty balancing
• Unable to use back legs
• Overly friendly and not afraid of humans
• Doesn't seem aware of what's going on around it

While seeing raccoons or skunks display these traits does not necessarily mean the animal has one of the viruses, members of the public should not take any chances, according to Newhouse.

"(The animal) should be assessed by a professional," Newhouse said in a statement. "It is important either way, that an animal showing these symptoms be contained so we can help it and/or remove any chance of it spreading a virus to any humans, pets or other wildlife."

Newhouse added: "We care very much about both of these species and euthanasia is a last resort. We have to do all we can to prevent the spread of these deadly viruses to save as many lives as possible."

Newhouse said that although raccoons and skunks are nocturnal, they sometimes can be seen wandering during the day. This, according to Newhouse, is a sign of them being "hungry or looking for love at odd times."