“Zombie squirrels” take over social media

On Reddit, Twitter, and Facebook, the images have been dubbed nightmare fuel. Posts range from alarmed questions like “Can grey squirrels survive squirrel pox?” to jokes attempting to lighten the mood: “Squirrel Pox, ladies and gentlemen. Thank God they’re only for squirrels.”

Despite the panic, experts stress the virus poses no risk to humans, cats, or dogs. In rare cases, domestic rabbits can be affected, but infections remain unusual. Transmission between squirrels often happens through mosquitoes or direct contact at feeders.

Hope for recovery

Although the disease looks frightening, many squirrels pull through. Wildlife enthusiasts have documented cases of animals regaining health, even if scars remain.

One person shared a video of a once-infected squirrel running and socializing again: “He beat the worst squirrel pox I have seen and is recovering well.”

For now, experts say the best course of action is simple: don’t interfere, keep your distance, and remove feeders if multiple infected squirrels appear.