Rabid racoon found in the Region - first confirmed case this year.

News 100 redBy Staff

October 7th, 2016

BURLINGTON, ON

 

The Halton Region Health Department received test results from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency on October 4 confirming a case of rabies in a raccoon found in Burlington. The Health Department is reminding residents to avoid all contact with raccoons and other wild animals.

Rabies is a viral disease that causes severe damage to the brain and spinal cord, and if untreated before symptoms appear will lead to death. The virus is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually entering through a bite or scratch.

abid-raccoon-attack

This raccoon is infected with rabies.

“Anyone who comes in physical contact with a raccoon or other wild animal should see a physician immediately and contact the Health Department by dialing 311,” said Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “After someone is exposed to rabies, timely use of the rabies vaccine can prevent the rabies illness. The rabies vaccine is extremely effective if it is administered before any symptoms occur.”

There are a number of things you can do to protect your family and pets:

• Make sure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up to date.
• Warn your children to stay away from any wild, stray or aggressive animals.
• Do not touch dead or sick animals.
• Do not feed or keep wild animals as pets.
• Keep your pet on a leash when off your property.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you come in contact with a raccoon or other potentially rabid animals.
• Any pet that has come in contact with a raccoon or other wild animal should be seen by a veterinarian.
• Report all animal bites or scratches to the Halton Region Health Department.

For more information on rabies, call the Halton Region Health Department by dialing 311 or visit halton.ca/rabies.

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2 comments to Rabid racoon found in the Region – first confirmed case this year.

  • Steve

    Does the Halton Regional Health department think giving a more specific location is too much information for the citizens?

  • Zaffi

    Thank you for the heads up. Do you know which part of Burlington it was found in?

    Editor’s note: The media release didn’t say and the Regional offices were closed before we could get back to someone for additional information.