Skunk tests positive for rabies in Wellesley Township

A skunk found near Wallenstein has tested positive for rabies, Region of Waterloo public health officials said Friday.A rabid fox was found in the same area in May.

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"The positive results are a reminder that rabies is present in the Region of Waterloo and that there is a need to take precautions to protect against rabies," the region said in a release.

Health Protection and Investigationofficials warned that rabies is almost always fatal in unvaccinated humans after neurological symptoms begin to show.

"The rabies virus can be carried in the saliva of infected mammals such as foxes, skunk, racoons, bats, dogs and cats. It is normally spread to people (or other mammals) through a bite, cut or scratch, or contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose and eyes," the region warned.