Eighth Rabies Case in North Dakota - KXNet - Bismarck/Minot/Williston/Dickinson

  A Bismarck skunk causes a problem -- but not the kind you think.

Bismarck Police Department says a skunk was found inside a Bismarck Expressway business.  Workers there had to kill the animal.

"There was a skunk in the Bismarck area that did expose an individual to possible rabies.  The skunk was able to be tested for rabies and it ended up being positive.  So that individual is being treated by his health care provider," says Alicia Lepp, Epidemiologist, North Dakota Department of Health.

So far this year, eight animals in North Dakota have tested positive for rabies -- five were skunks.  This time last year, 31 animals tested positive.  The North Dakota Department of Health says this year's numbers are considered normal.

If you are bitten or exposed, the Health Department says to seek medical attention immediately.  You should also vaccinate pets.