Skunk Distemper Reported in Kentucky

Breathitt County Animal Control officials and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFW) have announced this week that a case of distemper in a skunk in Madison County was confirmed in late February.

Distemper is caused by a virus and often occurs in raccoons, gray foxes, coyotes, and skunks.

According to KDFW biologists, common symptoms in infected animals include respiratory distress, coughing, sneezing, watery discharge from the eyes and nose, crusty footpads, and diarrhea.  Infected animals may also convulse, tremor, stagger, have chewing fits, become emaciated, and lose their fear of people.

The warning was issued for animals and pets as distemper is not transmissible to humans.  The virus is seen most often in unvaccinated canines, including dogs.

Officials recommend taking the precautions if an infection is suspected or possible or if your pet has been in contact with an infected animal:

• Do not attempt to handle or capture any sick wildlife.
• If you see a skunk or other animal that may be sick, contact the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife at appjw.ky.gov/nuisancecontrol. Local animal control officers are not authorized to handle wildlife or animals suspected of infection.
• Ensure your dog's vaccinations are up to date. The canine distemper vaccine will protect petsthat may come into contact with an infected animal.

• If you feed pets outdoors, do not leave food outside unattended for long periods. Pet food canattract wildlife and increase the risk of disease transmission.

Officials suggest that if you come into contact with a wild animal that may be infected with the virus, contact your health provider to report a possible exposure and contact the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife at 1-800-858-1549.