Opossums are often surrounded by myths, especially when it comes to diseases like rabies. Because they are wild can opossums get rabies, many people assume they pose a high rabies risk. However, opossums are unusual among mammals: they are extremely unlikely to carry or transmit rabies in real-world conditions.
So while the answer is technically “yes, in theory,” the practical risk is considered very low.
Understanding rabies first
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the nervous system of mammals. It spreads mainly through saliva, usually via bites from an infected animal.
Common rabies carriers include:
- Bats
- Raccoons
- Foxes
- Skunks
- Unvaccinated dogs
Once symptoms begin, rabies is almost always fatal, which makes prevention extremely important.
Why opossums are rarely linked to rabies
Opossums have a biological trait that makes rabies infection very unlikely: a lower body temperature compared to most mammals.
The rabies virus prefers warm, stable internal environments. In opossums, the cooler body temperature makes it difficult for the virus to survive and reproduce effectively.
Because of this:
- Confirmed rabies cases in opossums are extremely rare
- They are not considered a rabies reservoir species
- They are not a common source of rabies transmission
Behavior also reduces concern
Opossums behave very differently from animals commonly associated with rabies.
They are:
- Generally non-aggressive
- Slow-moving
- More likely to “play dead” when threatened
- Avoidant of confrontation
Rabid animals often show aggression or unusual behavior, which is not typical of healthy opossums.
Can opossums still carry disease?
Even though rabies is extremely unlikely, opossums can still carry other organisms such as:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mites
- Occasionally bacteria
So while they are not a rabies concern, they should still not be handled directly.
What to do if you see an opossum
If you encounter one:
- Keep your distance
- Do not attempt to touch or feed it
- Let it move away naturally
- Keep pets supervised or indoors
Opossums are generally harmless and even beneficial for controlling pests.
What if an opossum bites you?
Although rabies is highly unlikely, any bite from a wild animal should be treated seriously:
- Wash the wound immediately with soap and water
- Disinfect the area
- Seek medical evaluation
A healthcare professional will determine if any treatment is necessary.
Conclusion
Opossums can technically get rabies, but it is so rare that they are considered one of the lowest-risk wild mammals for the disease. Their unique biology and behavior make them unlikely carriers or transmitters.
Still, like all wild animals, they should be observed from a safe distance, and any bites should always be checked by a medical professional.