COLCHESTER, Conn. (WTNH) — A skunk has tested positive for rabies in Colchester according to the Chatham Health District.

The skunk was found in the area of Caverly Mill Road and Norwich Avenue.

Residents are advised to avoid contacting or approaching wild or unfamiliar domestic animals.

Rabies is a deadly disease that is caused by a virus which can infect all warm-blooded animals, including humans, according to the the Ledge Light Health District . It is usually spread by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs can become infected by the virus, which lives in saliva and brain tissue of infected animals.

It can be spread by scratches from infected animals, or when their saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin, or the mucous membrane such as eyes, mouth and nose.

R

See Full Page