Joplin Health Department Identifies Rabies in Skunk

The Joplin Health Department has confirmed a positive case of rabies in a skunk within the Joplin city limits. This is Joplin’s first positive rabies test result in 2026.

While the exposure risk to the public is low, there is exposure risk for pets if not properly vaccinated. The Health Department is reminding community members of rabies prevention methods.

Details of the case:

• The skunk was tested for rabies after it made contact with a dog from a local residence.

• Rabies was confirmed through laboratory testing from a specimen submitted to the State Public Health Lab on 9/8/26.

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it is preventable. Here’s what you should know:

• The rabies virus can spread to people and pets through the bites or scratches of infected animals. An infected animal will not always exhibit obvious symptoms.

• The best way to prevent the spread of rabies is to keep your distance from wildlife. Pet owners can lower their risk by keeping their pets up to date on rabies vaccines and keeping their pets away from wild animals.

• Rabies is found naturally in some Missouri wildlife – primarily bats and skunks. However, other mammals can test positive for rabies including domestic species such as dogs, cats, horses, and cattle. Do not approach animals who appear to be injured, sick, or dead. This is especially true if you see animals during the day who are usually active at night (skunks, raccoons, etc.).

• Rabies does not spread through contaminated materials such as clothing, bedding, or simply petting a dog.

• The time from exposure to infection in people or animals can range from weeks to more than 1 year.

What to look for:

• In animals:

o Behavioral changes such as increased aggression.

o Excessive drooling.

o Difficulty swallowing.

o Staggering, paralysis, or seizures.

• In humans:

o Fever, headache, weakness or discomfort.

o Severe disease appears within two weeks after the first symptoms.

o Severe disease symptoms include anxiety, confusion, agitation, and hallucinations.

Rabies treatment is nearly 100% effective if you get it after exposure. If you have been bitten or scratched by any wildlife or unfamiliar animals, follow these protocols:

• Wash any wounds immediately with soap and water for 15 minutes.

• Using rubbing alcohol or similar antiseptic to lower the risk of other infections.

• Seek urgent medical attention to determine if you need treatment to prevent rabies infection.

Necessary vaccines must be given as soon as possible after an exposure.

Practice prevention:

• Ensure pets and livestock are current on rabies vaccinations. The City of Joplin requires that all dogs and cats over four months of age be vaccinated for rabies.

• Avoid contact with unfamiliar or aggressive animals.

• Report any bites or scratches from unfamiliar animals to your healthcare provider.

For more information, visit the CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/index.html or contact the Joplin Health Department at 417-623-6122.