MILLVILLE — Cumber­land County residents are warned against attempting to provide assistance to pets that may have come in contact with wild rabid animals, as the Cumberland County Health Department reports its fifth positive rabies case of 2010.

The department received test results that indicated a skunk, found in Upper Deer­field Township on June 9 tested positive for rabies. The wild skunk was found during the daytime in a resident’s garden. Before the time of death, the skunk appeared sick, aggressive but overly friendly in that it was not afraid of humans. It was exposed to three people; however no one was harmed. It’s believed the skunk had not bitten or been exposed to any animals.

Rabies is a fatal disease that can affect humans and animals.

However, there are many ways to keep your home, family and pets safe from rabies, according to county public health coordinator Herb Roes­chke. “You can protect your pets by keeping an eye on their outdoor activities, not allowing them to run loose and making sure their rabies vaccinations are up to date.”

You can protect yourself and family by avoiding wild and stray animals, says Roeschke.

“Animals that act strangely must be avoided; even if the animal is overly friendly. This may be a sign of rabies.”

Any suspicious activity by raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes, cattle, horses, cats or dogs should be reported immediately to the municipal animal control officer, it’s advised.

Call the Cumberland County Health Department at 327-7602 ext. 1139.