by Daniel Duric, for the Newport Dispatch

WESTMORE — The Vermont Health Department has confirmed a case of rabies in a skunk in the town of Westmore and is urging residents in the area to take steps to protect themselves and their animals.

The department said the detection of a rabid animal indicates the virus is circulating among wildlife in the greater Westmore area.

State law requires dogs and cats, including barn cats, to be vaccinated against rabies. Residents who are bitten by an animal should wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and contact a healthcare provider, the department said.

Pet or farm animal owners whose animals are exposed to a wild or stray animal that may have rabies should contact a veterinarian.

The department warned residents not to touch or pick up wild or stray animals, including young animals, as doing so can risk exposure through a bite or scratch. Interacting with young wildlife may also result in the animal being orphaned or euthanized for rabies testing.

Anyone who sees a wild or stray animal acting strangely or is concerned about a possible rabies exposure can call the state Rabies Hotline at 1-800-472-2437 or contact their town’s animal control officer.

In Vermont, rabies is most commonly found in raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats and woodchucks, according to the Health Department. The virus is spread through bites or contact with open cuts or mucous membranes.

More information is available at healthvermont.gov/rabies.