Oakland Co. officials verify case of rabies in West Bloomfield

Pontiac — Rabies has been confirmed in one more skunk in Oakland County, health department said Thursday.

The latest case of rabies was found in a dead skunk removed from West Bloomfield north of West 14 Mile Road, south of West Maple Road between Drake and Farmington Roads, officials said.

About 15 cases of rabies have been found in animals in Oakland County this year, according to the Oakland County Health Division. 11 of the cases were found in skunks and four were found in bats.

Last week, the county reported it confirmed rabies in two skunks removed from the cities of Southfield and Farmington Hills.

"Rabies is a fatal disease and there is no known cure," Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County, said in a statement. "The best protection is to avoid contact with stray, wild, and dead animals.”

She also urged residents to help protect pets by getting them vaccinated and avoiding encounters with unfamiliar animals.

Anyone who is bitten by a wild or a strange animal should wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.

To report an animal bite, call local police and notify the Oakland County Health Division at (248) 858-1286.

cramirez@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @CharlesERamirez