A beaver found along Pine Creek, Lycoming County has tested positive for rabies, the  Department of Health confirmed Thursday.

The department urges anyone who may have been bitten or exposed to saliva, fluids, or tissue from a beaver to call the Lycoming County State Health Center Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 570-327-3400. Residents can also call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) at any time.

Exposure includes bites, scratches, or having had saliva, nervous system fluid or tissue from an animal enter a person's open wound or mucous membranes such as eyes, nose, or mouth. Under these circumstances, individuals should seek immediate medical attention.

The department also reminds all residents that they should avoid contact with wild animals of any kind as it can be difficult to tell whether or not the animal is rabid.

Questions regarding domestic animals that may have come into contact with the rabid beaver should be referred to your veterinarian or to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture at 570-433-2640.

By state law, all dogs and non-feral cats, three months of age or older, must be vaccinated against rabies. Booster vaccinations must be administered periodically to maintain life-long immunity.

For more information, visit the Department of Health’s Rabies webpage or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258).

NewsClips:

Rabid Beaver Confirmed In Lycoming County

Allegheny County Launching Effort To Control Raccoon Rabies

8/10/2015