Reports of "zombie squirrels" with strange sores are surfacing in Canada and the U.S. These squirrels are infected with the squirrel fibroma virus (SFV), a poxvirus that causes benign tumors. While the infection can be serious for squirrels, it's not harmful to humans and usually resolves on its own. SFV primarily spreads through insect bites but can also transmit through direct contact. The Michigan DNR assures that even infected squirrels are safe to eat (for hunters), though handling wildlife should be avoided. The naming of various squirrel pox viruses requires clarification.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.