Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop – November 5, 2011

August 01, 2025

Rabies is a very serious and fatal viral disease which attacks the central nervous system of warm-blooded animals including humans.  Rabid animals don’t act normally; they can become aggressive or appear depressed.  The rabies virus is concentrated in the saliva of infected animals.  It is spread when the saliva of an infected animal enters a cut or a wound through a bite or a scratch.  The virus can also be passed through contact with mucous membranes such as the mouth or eyes.

 Current Situation:

  • The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) will be dropping rabies vaccine baits on Saturday, November 5, 2011 (weather permitting) in response to a positive rabies case in the Waterloo/Wellington (Wallenstein area).  A skunk was confirmed with ‘Ontario fox’ strain rabies on November 3, 2011
  • MNR will be distributing approximately 20,000 vaccine baits aerially (by helicopter) in Waterloo and Wellington counties
  • The flavoured baits immunize most skunks, foxes and raccoons that eat them. Baits are small and khaki green, with a toll-free rabies hotline number stamped on them. If you see baits, please leave them undisturbed
  • The bait is not harmful to people or pets, however in the event that you do have exposure to the bait contacting you doctor or your veterinarian as a precaution is recommended
  • Ontario has reduced rabies cases in the province by over 98 per cent since rabies control programs began 20 years ago
  • This is the second case of terrestrial rabies in 2011 in Ontario.  The first case was located in Grey County
  • Rabies public hotline 1-888-574-6656 (Ministry of Natural Resources)

 Rabies Safety Reminders:

  • Regularly vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies.  It’s the law.  You could be fined up to $90.00 for failing to vaccinate your pet
  • Do not let your animal roam free.  Know where they are at all times
  • Do not pet animals that are unfamiliar to you
  • Stay away from wild animals including racoons, skunks, foxes and bats
  • If you are bitten by an animal, obtain the name and phone number of the animal owner, clean the wound immediately, speak with your doctor, then call Region of Waterloo Public Health to report the incident. You can speak with an inspector weekdays at 519-883-2008 ext 5147

Helpful links:

Ontario.ca/rabies

2011 Rabies Control Operations map

MNR Link to Bait information Fact Sheet:       http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/Rabies/2ColumnSubPage/STEL02_166285.html

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Media contact:  Brenda Miller, Manager, Health Protection, 519-883-2008, ext. 2379