Ever spot an opossum in your yard and wonder if it’s dangerous? You’re definitely not alone—lots of people worry about rabies when they see these critters.
Here’s the thing: Opossums almost never get rabies. Their body temperature is lower than most mammals, so the rabies virus can’t really survive in them.
Still, you might want to know how safe opossums really are, or what signs to watch for just in case. Learning a bit about their behavior and health can make you feel more comfortable next time you see one hanging around.
Let’s clear up a few myths and get to the real facts about opossums and rabies.
Curious why opossums almost never carry rabies, or how to spot odd behavior? It’s actually not that complicated.
If you ever come across a sick or injured opossum, there are some simple things you can do. For even more details, check out this guide on opossums and rabies.
How Common Is Rabies in Opossums?
Opossums almost never get rabies, but it’s not impossible. The way rabies spreads and the unique traits of opossums explain why these animals rarely catch the virus.
Other animals play a big role in rabies risks for opossums, and people often mix up opossums with possums from Australia.
Rabies Transmission and Susceptible Wildlife
Rabies usually spreads through bites from infected animals. Wild carnivores like raccoons, bats, and foxes carry rabies most often.
Bats can pass rabies to other animals, including opossums.
In cities, opossums sometimes share space with bats or other wildlife. This contact can lead to rabies infection, but it’s still very rare.
Researchers have found that fewer than 5% of tested opossums have rabies, which is way lower than other wild animals.
Why Opossums Rarely Contract the Rabies Virus
Opossums have body temperatures around 34-36°C, which is a little cooler than most mammals. The rabies virus doesn’t do well at those temperatures, so opossums stay safer.
Since they’re small and usually run or hide, opossums don’t often survive long after meeting a rabid animal. This makes it unlikely for them to carry or spread rabies.
These natural defenses do a pretty good job of keeping opossums rabies-free.
Rabies Risks from Other Wildlife
Other animals, not opossums, mostly spread rabies. Bats are a big source, especially in cities where bats and opossums might compete for shelter.
Dogs and cats that interact with both bats and opossums can sometimes help the virus reach people. Keeping an eye on these animal populations helps prevent rabies from spreading.
Possum vs. Opossum: Clarifying the Difference
People often say “possum” when they mean “opossum,” but they’re not the same. Opossums live in North and South America, and possums are from Australia.
If you read something about rabies in “possums,” it might not apply to American opossums at all.
When we talk about opossums here, we mean species like the Virginia opossum, which researchers have studied a lot in rabies research.
How to Identify and Prevent Rabies Exposure
Rabies is a serious disease. Still, if you know what to look for and how to protect yourself, you can stay safe.
Knowing the warning signs in wildlife like opossums, and what to do if you think you’ve been exposed, really matters.
Signs of Rabies in Opossums and Other Nocturnal Animals
Rabid opossums and other nocturnal animals sometimes act weird. You might see them out during the day, which isn’t normal since they’re usually out at night.
They could seem weak, uncoordinated, or even aggressive.
Watch for these signs:
- Trouble walking or staggering
- Drooling a lot or foaming at the mouth
- Aggression or biting for no reason
- Can’t move their limbs or seem paralyzed
- Strange sounds like growling or hissing
Baby opossums might act this way too if they’re sick. If you notice these behaviors in opossums or raccoons, don’t touch them. Call animal control.
Protecting Pets and People from Rabies
You want your pets and family to stay safe from rabies. Make sure your dogs and cats get their rabies shots on schedule.
Pets that go outside might meet infected wildlife and catch rabies.
Here’s what you can do:
- Keep rabies vaccines up to date
- Supervise pets outside or keep them indoors
- Stay away from wild or stray animals
- Seal up holes and entry points around your house
- Remind kids not to touch or feed wild animals
These steps help keep rabies away from your home. Pets can sometimes be the first sign that rabies is nearby.
What to Do After Possible Exposure
If a wild animal bites or scratches you or your pet, act fast. Wash the area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
This simple step can lower the risk of infection.
Go to a doctor or vet right away. Tell them what happened and what kind of animal was involved.
If you can, have the animal safely captured for observation or testing.
Watch for any changes in bite wounds or odd behavior in your pet or yourself. Acting quickly is important because rabies is almost always fatal after symptoms show up.
Rabies Vaccines and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
Rabies vaccines work really well for preventing the disease. Make sure your pets get their regular rabies shots so they stay protected.
If you get exposed to a rabid or even a possibly rabid animal, you might need post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Doctors give PEP as a series of shots after you’ve been exposed.
PEP usually includes:
- The rabies vaccine to help your body build up immunity
- Sometimes, a medicine called rabies immune globulin for fast protection
It’s super important to start PEP as soon as possible after exposure. The vaccine can’t cure rabies if symptoms have already started, but if you get it in time, it could save your life.
Always talk to your healthcare provider about rabies vaccines and PEP if you think you’ve been exposed.
