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Zombie Squirrels: Mysterious Virus Sparks Concern in North America

8/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Reports of "zombie squirrels" with sores and warts are rising in North America, especially on social media.
Experts attribute the condition to squirrel fibromatosis, caused by leporipoxvirus, rather than squirrel pox.
The virus spreads through direct contact and can severely affect squirrels but is not harmful to humans.
Wildlife professionals recommend observing squirrels from a distance to allow natural healing.

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Story summary

Reports of "zombie squirrels" with sores and warts are rising in North America, especially on social media.
Experts attribute the condition to squirrel fibromatosis, caused by leporipoxvirus, rather than squirrel pox.
The virus spreads through direct contact and can severely affect squirrels but is not harmful to humans.
Wildlife professionals recommend observing squirrels from a distance to allow natural healing.