Animal Health
Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease of mammals that can also infect humans. The virus attacks the nervous system of infected mammals and causes severe neurologic signs that are typically fatal. In Wyoming, rabies is present in the wildlife population. The disease is most commonly found in bats and skunks in Wyoming. Livestock, pets, and humans can be exposed to the virus through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Management of rabies in Wyoming is a multiagency approach. The Wyoming Department of Health, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory all play a role in rabies control in the state. Local jurisdictions may have additional rules related to rabies vaccination and control. The Wyoming Livestock Board has rules related to domestic animals diagnosed with rabies that can be found here.
Veterinarians and other health care professionals that are concerned about animal or human exposure to rabies or have questions can visit the Wyoming Department of Health Rabies webpage for contact and reporting information.
Clinical Signs
Once an animal is infected, the virus travels along the nerves to the brain. Animals with rabies may show the following signs:
Behavioral changes and unexplained paralysis are common signs associated with rabies, however, rabies should be a differential diagnosis in all cases of unexplained neurological disease. There is no treatment for rabies in animals.
Diagnosis
Brain tissue is required for rabies testing. The Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory has additional information on rabies testing and diagnosis available on their website.
Prevention
Vaccination is a critical tool in the prevention and control of rabies. Approved rabies vaccines are available for domestic animals. Additionally, proof of rabies vaccination of pets is required for bite investigations.