Hamilton Public Health reminds residents to take precautions against Rabies
April 11, 2016 – Hamilton, ON – Public Health is encouraging residents to learn about rabies, prevention and what to do if you come in contact with a wild animal. Raccoon strain rabies is established in Hamilton’s raccoon, and skunk population. The total number of raccoons and skunks found positive for raccoon rabies in Hamilton from 2015 to date is 72. This includes 48 raccoons and 24 skunks
Total raccoons and skunks found positive with raccoon rabies in Ontario from 2015 to date is 77.
“Hamilton has a high number of rabid raccoons and skunks, and the highest amount for Ontario. Now that it’s spring, chances of encountering a raccoon or skunk or other wild animal is higher than winter time. We need people to stay away from raccoons, skunks, other wildlife, and unknown dogs and cats,” says Susan Harding-Cruz. “Our overall goal is to prevent human cases of rabies – as rabies is almost always fatal.”
The overall risk to the public of being exposed to rabies remains low but there are measures you can take to minimize your risk. It is important to take precautions to avoid contact with rabid animals. Please be cautious and follow these simple steps below to reduce your risk of getting rabies.
Tips to prevent rabies:
- Always keep a safe distance from wild animals. Rabies can make animals aggressive or it can make them appear sick, scared, or friendly.
- Avoid contact with live or dead animals including raccoons, skunks, other land animals and bats, and unknown dogs and cats
- Call Hamilton Animal Services at 905-546-2489 if you see a dead, sick or strangely acting raccoon, skunk or other wild animal
- Do not feed, help, or relocate any wildlife or keep them as pets
- If anyone is bitten by a wild animal, or there is direct mucous membrane contact with the animal’s saliva, wash the wound with soap and water, seek medical attention immediately or call Public Health Services at 905-546-2489.
- Vaccinate your pets against rabies, and keep rabies vaccinations current for dogs and cats to protect them, and prevent any spread to people.
- Contact your vet or the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) at 1-877-424-1300 if your pet is in contact with a wild animal.
Learn more about rabies in Ontario, and rabies in Hamilton