City of Clinton warns of new rabies cases

CLINTON, Okla. (KFOR) - The City of Clinton is warning residents of two new rabies cases within the past 30 days.

According to the Clinton Police Department, the city has seen three total cases in 2025 and all cases involved skunks.

Residents are encouraged to never handle wildlife. Although most animals do not have rabies, they may carry it as well as other diseases. You should be cautious around raccoons, bats, foxes and skunks, alive or dead.

If you see a wild or domestic animal showing signs of illness, fearlessness, aggression or other unusual behaviors, call the Clinton Animal Control Officer at 580-323-2323 (option 0).

Officials say rabies is 100% preventable and recommend taking the following precautions:

• Vaccinate your pets and livestock against rabies and keep vaccinations up to date.
• Rabies vaccinations and booster doses must be administered by a licensed veterinarian.
• Remember that booster vaccines are required after the initial rabies vaccination to ensure protection.
• Avoid contact with wild animals and teach kids never to touch unfamiliar or stray animals.
• Do not feed or handle strays and report them to Animal Control.
• Secure garbage and pet food to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Keep pets supervised and do not allow them to roam freely
• Report animal bites or scratches right away to both your healthcare provider and Animal Control.
• Seek medical attention immediately if bitten or scratched by any animal, especially wildlife.