Jefferson County, Colo. — A skunk found in the Oak Crest neighborhood in Arvada has tested positive for rabies. This is the first confirmed case of rabies in an animal in Jefferson County and in Colorado in 2026. The positive test followed an investigation by local animal control and public health officials. Warmer, drier winter weather means people, pets and wildlife are spending more time outdoors, increasing the chances of contact.
Rabies is a serious disease that can be deadly to people and animals if it is not treated right away. It spreads through the saliva of infected animals and can affect people, pets, and livestock. Anyone who has had direct contact with a wild or stray animal should contact a healthcare provider and their local animal control agency immediately.
“When the weather is warmer than usual, wildlife like skunks and bats can wander into neighborhoods more often, which can increase encounters between animals and people," said Rachel Reichardt, Environmental Health Specialist and Zoonosis Lead. “Keeping your pets vaccinated and staying away from wild animals are the best ways to stay safe year-round.”
We encourage everyone to take steps now to protect themselves and their loved ones from rabies:
- Keep pets and livestock up to date on rabies vaccines.
- Avoid contact with any wild animals, especially those that are behaving strangely.
- Teach children to stay away from all wild animals, stray pets or dead animals and to tell an adult if they are scratched or bitten.
- Keep pets close where you can keep an eye on them while they are outside.
- If someone has been in contact with a wild animal or was bitten by stray pet, seek medical attention immediately and notify Gilpin County Public Health
To report an animal concern, please contact Gilpin County Public Health at 303-582-5803 or email mlarson@gilpincounty.org.