GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.—A record number of rabies cases has been found in Colorado wildlife this year, with a coyote near Cortez the latest one.
The Daily Sentinel in Grand Junction reports that state officials say there have been 138 cases so far this year. That’s up from 103 last year and 65 in 2008.
State health officials say the deadly neurological disease seems to be spreading through skunks from the eastern plains to the Front Range. Cases have been confirmed in bats, skunks and foxes. A domestic cat, horse, muskrat and mule deer have also tested positive.
State and countie agencies have teamed up to track the spread of the disease. They’re urging people to keep pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date and reduce their exposure to wildlife.
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Information from: The Daily Sentinel,
