Rabies Epidemiology
The incidence and distribution in Montana and elsewhere, along with the information regarding the spread of the disease.
Transmission
Rabies is generally transmitted by the saliva of infected animals.
Most exposures occur through the bite of a rabid animal. In addition, infection can occur when infective saliva, from rabid animals, comes in contact with open wounds, cuts, abrasions, scratches, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth). Two cases of human rabies, in Montana, were attributed to exposure to rabid bats. Bat bites may go undetected-- if a bat is found in a room where a person is sleeping, where there is an unattended child, disabled or an intoxicated person, rabies exposure must be considered.
What animals normally get rabies?
All mammals are susceptible to rabies. Most cases in the U.S. involve wild animals, especially skunks, bats, raccoons, coyotes, foxes, and bobcats. In addition, although rare, woodchucks, rabbits, beavers, squirrels and other rodents can be infected with rabies. Rabies has also been diagnosed in dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, pigs, and other domestic animals. Over 60 cases of rabies are diagnosed annually in Montana, with most cases occurring in skunks and bats.
