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Normally chipmunks are not a potential threat for diseases (at least that we are aware of at this time). However, according to the October 1999 issue of the Probe, newsletter of the National Animal Damage Control Association p. 5., a twelve year old girl in Ohio was bitten by a chipmunk that tested positive for the raccoon strain of rabies in April of 1999. So as we have said elsewhere, Rabies , avoid contact with wildlife.

Here is one letter to WDC

Mr. Vantassel,
A friend of mine was bitten by a Chipmunk that came into the kitchen of a private home. My friend picked up the Chipmunk and it bit him on the hand and ran out the door when he was dropped. The wound is superficial, however it did break the skin. I have tried to get him to go to a doctor but he says he's OK. Is he? I told him that it takes a few days or longer for symptoms to appear. Macho man that he thinks he is, he still insists he is OK. Thank you for any advice you can give me.

WDC replied

I can't tell you if your friend is okay. Depends on your state. Some states have rabies some don't. Certainly chipmunks are not a major rabies vector species. But even if rabies aren't a threat, and I am not saying it isn't, your friend needs to consider the lock jaw infection. Have your friend consult a doctor and the CDC.
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http://www.wildlifedamagecontrol.net/chipmunks.php
Source(s):
http://www.wildlifedamagecontrol.net/chipmunks.php

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