Skunk Tests Positive for Rabies in Wellesley Township

A skunk located in the Wallenstein area has tested positive for rabies. In previous weeks a fox tested positive for rabies in this same area. The positive results are a reminder that rabies is present in the Region of Waterloo and that there is a need to take precautions to protect against rabies.

Rabies is almost always fatal. The rabies virus can be carried in the saliva of infected mammals such as foxes, skunk, racoons, bats, dogs and cats. It is normally spread to people (or other mammals) through a bite, cut or scratch, or contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose and eyes.

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Rural Affairs is following up to confirm no domestic or farm animals were exposed. Public Health is investigating as to whether there has been any potential human exposure. Currently, it is believed that there was no human contact with the skunk.

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has begun the wildlife rabies vaccine baiting program across Eastern and Southern Ontario including in Waterloo Region. The bait will be dropped by air and will target primarily rural or forested areas with the aim of inoculating the local wildlife populations. Ground baiting will be done in urban areas where aerial baiting is not effective. The baiting program is expected to take place from July to October. The flavoured bait immunizes most skunks, racoons and fox who eat them. The baits are small and khaki green colour with a toll free rabies number stamped on them (1-888-575-6656). If you see baits do not disturb them.

To protect your family and your pets from rabies:

• Keep dogs and cats up to date with rabies vaccine. It is the law that all dogs and cats over 3 months of age be vaccinated against rabies. This includes barn cats.
• Teach children to stay away from wild animals and dogs and cats that they don’t know or any animal that is acting aggressively or appears unwell.
• Keep pets away from wildlife. Dogs should be kept on a leash when walking.
• Don’t feed pets outdoors and keep them inside at night to protect them against wild animals.
• Talk to your veterinarian about rabies vaccination for livestock.
• Report animals that are acting strangely to local Animal Control Services.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the area thoroughly with soapy water, seek medical attention immediately and then contact Region of Waterloo Public Health at 519-575-4400.

If your pet or livestock have had contact with a wild animal including a bat, skunk, fox or racoon contact your veterinarian and Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs at 1-877-424-1300 as soon as possible for advice on post exposure management.

For more information: call 519-575-4400 or visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/rabies

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Media contact: TJ Flynn, Communications Coordinator, TFlynn@regionofwaterloo.ca, 519-575-4400.