Waterford — A skunk found in Waterford on Monday tested positive for rabies, according to a news release from the Ledge Light Health District.

The district issued a public health alert after finding the rabid skunk near Avery Lane.

Ledge Light, which serves as the local health department for East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, New London and Waterford, cautioned against feeding or approaching any wild or stray animals.

Rabies is deadly and can infect all warm-blooded animals, including humans, according to the notice.

"The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals," it said. "Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, etc.)."

Anyone with questions may call Ledge Light Health District at (860) 448-4882 or the animal control officer at (860) 867-6731.