Do all squirrels have rabies?
Rabies is a viral infection. It affects the central nervous system of mammals. It is fatal if the disease is not treated before the symptoms develop. Rabies is spread by infected animals through their saliva or brain tissue. It is for this reason that animal bites have to be treated immediately.Animals which run a high risk of having rabies are raccoons, foxes, bats, groundhogs and skunks. Smaller animals like rats, mice, squirrels, guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, chipmunks and gerbils are considered low risk animals.Squirrels are found near human dwellings and it is reasonable to fear them as carriers of rabies. However squirrels are one of the few animals that do not cause a rabies protocol in a hospital.

Reasons to consider squirrels rabies free
Some of the reasons why a squirrel has very little chance of contracting rabies are given below.
1. Most of the animals that carry rabies are enemies of the squirrel. They are predators and squirrels do their best to avoid them.
2. Squirrels are very fast and aided with 180 degree vision, which helps them avoid their predators.
3. The risk of being caught and wounded is very little for they are usually killed when caught.

Squirrel bites
Squirrels are not very aggressive by nature and will run away before you come close. Chances of being bitten by a squirrel are only
• If you accidentally sit or step on them.
• When you try to catch or trap them.
• If you come in the way of a mother squirrel and her babies. A mother squirrel is very protective and becomes aggressive if she feels her babies are in danger.

Steps to follow when bitten by a squirrel
If you have been bitten by a squirrel it is important to take care of the wound. A minor bite can be treated like any other minor wound. Apply an antibiotic cream after washing the area well with soap and water. A dry bandage can be used to cover the area. If bleeding continues or if the wound is deep and skin badly damaged then it is important to visit a doctor. Further treatment and a tetanus booster shot may be required. This is more so if you have not had a booster shot for the last five years.If your pet dog or cat has been bitten by a squirrel it is important to visit a veterinary hospital. The vet will perform tests and treat.

Though it is uncommon for squirrels to catch rabies it is important to report to health authorities in case of change in behavior pattern. This includes lethargy, walking in circles or unprovoked aggression or fearlessness.Squirrels are known to spread other diseases like Salmonellosis, Lyme disease, Tularemia, and Leptospirosis. Some of the diseases are spread through their droppings, urine or ticks on them.Hence it is best to avoid any direct contact. Use gloves and mask while removing waste or evicting them. Contact wildlife authorities in case of problems.