Opossums are often misunderstood animals, especially when it comes to disease risks like rabies. Many people assume any wild mammal can easily carry can opossums get rabies, but opossums are actually a special case. The truth is: opossums can theoretically get rabies, but in real-world conditions it is extremely rare.
This makes them one of the least likely wild animals to be associated with rabies transmission.
What is rabies?
Rabies is a viral infection that affects the brain and nervous system of mammals. It is usually spread through saliva, most often via bites from an infected animal.
Common rabies carriers include:
- Bats
- Raccoons
- Skunks
- Foxes
- Unvaccinated dogs and cats
Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, which is why prevention is critical.
Why opossums rarely get rabies
Opossums have a unique biological feature that sets them apart from many other mammals: a lower body temperature than most warm-blooded animals.
The rabies virus typically thrives in animals with higher, more stable body temperatures. In opossums, the cooler internal environment makes it much harder for the virus to survive and multiply effectively.
Because of this:
- Documented rabies cases in opossums are extremely rare
- They are not considered a natural rabies reservoir species
- They are far less likely to transmit rabies compared to other wildlife
Natural behavior reduces concern
Beyond biology, opossum behavior also lowers the perceived risk.
They are:
- Non-aggressive
- Slow-moving
- Avoidant of confrontation
- Known for “playing dead” rather than attacking
Animals with rabies often show aggression or unusual behavior, which is not typical of healthy opossums.
Can opossums carry other diseases?
While rabies is extremely unlikely, opossums can still host other parasites or pathogens, such as:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mites
- Occasional bacterial infections
So although rabies is not a major concern, direct handling of wild opossums is still not recommended.
What to do if you see an opossum
If you encounter one:
- Stay calm and keep your distance
- Do not attempt to touch or feed it
- Allow it to move away on its own
- Keep pets indoors or supervised
Opossums are generally harmless and even beneficial, as they help control insects and small pests.
What if an opossum bites you?
Even though rabies is extremely unlikely, any bite from a wild animal should be taken seriously:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water
- Apply antiseptic
- Seek medical evaluation promptly
A healthcare professional can determine whether any further treatment is needed.
Conclusion
Opossums are among the least likely mammals to carry rabies due to their unique biology and low body temperature. While no wild animal is completely risk-free, rabies in opossums is so rare that they are not considered a significant concern for transmission.
Still, as with all wildlife, it is safest to observe them from a distance and avoid direct contact.