Test results from the Ministry of Natural Resources confirmed rabies in a dead skunk in North Wellington, just east of Wallenstein.
There was no human contact but the MNR planned to do an aerial drop of rabies vaccine bait in the area on the weekend.
“The flavoured bait isn’t harmful to people or pets, but if a person or pet comes into contact with the vaccine in the bait, they should contact a doctor or veterinarian,” said program manager for health protection Scott Hutchison.
The baits are small, khaki green, with a toll-free rabies phone number stamped on them. If anyone see them, they are asked to leave them alone. The vaccine is designed to prevent the spread of skunk and fox rabies by immunizing the animals that eat the baits.
Hutchison added, “It’s a good reminder for dog and cat owners to regularly vaccinate their pets against rabies too. It’s the law in Ontario and you could be fined if you don’t vaccinate your pet.”
To further reduce the risk of rabies: don’t let pets roam free, especially at night; feed them indoors to discourage unwanted visitors; stay away from strange cats and dogs; keep away from wild animals including raccoons, skunks, foxes and bats; and store garbage in proper containers with secure lids to discourage wild animals. If bitten or scratched: wash the area with soap and water and report the bite or scratch to WDG Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 2673.
For more information visit www.wdgpublichealth.ca. For more about the aerial drops go to www.mnr.gov.on.ca and search for rabies.
