If Bitten by a Wild Animal, Seek Rabies Treatment Immediately

Rabies is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear — but it's also 100% preventable with prompt post-exposure treatment. Any bite or scratch from a bat, raccoon, fox, skunk, stray dog, or any wild mammal requires immediate medical attention. Don't wait to see if symptoms develop — by then it's too late. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, then go straight to the emergency room. The post-exposure vaccine series is effective even days after the bite, but sooner is always better. If the animal can be safely captured for testing, that helps — but never chase or corner a potentially rabid animal.