The Elbert County Health and Environment has been responding to resident reports of odd behavior and deaths in Elbert County wildlife.

In the past 12 months, 11 samples have been collected and have tested positive for rabies virus.

The most recent sample, a skunk, was showing uncoordinated and aggressive behavior in a neighborhood on the outskirts of Elizabeth.

Elbert County Health Officials suggest that pet owners make sure that their cats’ and dogs’ rabies vaccinations are up to date.

Rabies is a virus that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals, resulting in death. The virus is shed in the saliva of infected animals.

Additional precaution to prevent possible exposure to rabies include:

Do not feed wild animals. Do not leave pet food outside, or feed more than your outdoor pet will finish in one feeding.

Do not leave livestock feed containers open in sheds or barns. Remove junk piles from around the home that might be attractive nesting areas for wild animals.

Teach children to stay away from all wild animals, stray domestic animals or dead animals they might find.

Do not let pets roam freely, as this increases the chance they will be exposed without your knowledge.

If a pet is bitten, scratched or sprayed by a wild animal, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Report any dog or cat bites to your doctor or Elbert County Animal Control immediately.

Typically, raccoons and skunks rarely are seen in the daylight hours. If any wild animals are seen exhibiting odd or aggressive behavior, contact the Elbert County Animal Control officer at 303-621-2030, or Elbert County Health at 303-621-3193 or 303-621-3145.