Skunks in Smithfield and Glocester tested positive for rabies, and a dog exposed to each animal was treated, the Rhode Island Department of Health announced in separate alerts.

The Smithfield alert, issued Oct. 23, concerns the Clark Road area. It does not say whether any people were exposed. The Glocester alert, issued Oct. 22, concerns Blackinton Drive and says no human exposures were known at that time.

Anyone who may have had direct contact with a skunk in either area should immediately call the Department of Health's Center for Acute Infectious Disease Epidemiology for an exposure assessment.

The weekday number is 401-222-2577, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The after-hours number is 401-276-8046. A nurse can assess the contact and determine whether treatment is needed.

Rabies affects the central nervous system and is fatal if not treated before symptoms develop. The department advises beginning any indicated treatment as soon as possible after exposure rather than waiting for symptoms.

If a pet may have contacted either skunk, the department directs owners to call the state, their local animal-control officer and their veterinarian.

Rhode Island requires current rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets. The department also advises keeping pets under control, avoiding contact with wild and stray animals and securing garbage that could attract wildlife.