Ministry of Natural Resources begins Annual Oral Rabies Vaccine Distribution
Hamilton, ON - August 12, 2016 - The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) has begun its annual oral rabies vaccine (ORV) summer and fall bait distribution. The City of Hamilton and outlying areas are now included in the annual oral rabies vaccine distribution in order to control the spread of raccoon strain rabies.
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 145. This includes 94 raccoons and 51 skunks
The MNRF uses a number of control measures in the fight against the deadly rabies virus including ground ‘urban’ baiting in targeted urban areas within a 50 km radius of confirmed raccoon strain rabies cases from July to October; and aerial baiting within a 50 km radius of confirmed raccoon strain rabies cases beginning in August.
About the Oral Rabies Vaccine
- The khaki-green coloured baits are made of vegetable based fats and wax with an attractant flavour (vanilla-sugar). A label with a toll-free 1-888-574-6656 telephone number for the MNRF rabies information line and “Do not eat” warning are on the exterior of the bait; a plastic package containing the liquid rabies vaccine is embedded in the centre.
- If found, the bait should not be touched, but left for raccoons, skunks and foxes to consume.
- Exposure to the bait is not harmful to people or pets; however, in the unlikely event that people or pets come in contact with the vaccine contained in the bait, contacting a doctor or veterinarian as a precaution is recommended.
The City of Hamilton reminds residents of the following measures to protect your family and pets from 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. Do not feed, help, or relocate any wildlife or keep them as pets.
- Keep your pets supervised.
- Vaccinate your pets against rabies, and keep rabies vaccinations current for dogs and cats to protect them, and prevent any spread to people. Look for an upcoming low cost rabies clinic.
- Report animal bites to public health by calling 905-546-2489. Wash wounds with soap and water and seek medical attention.
- If you see sick, injured or strange behaving wildlife report it to City of Hamilton Animal Services at 905-546-2489.
More information:
- City of Hamilton Public Health Services rabies information
- Information about rabies: www.ontario.ca/rabies
- More information on Oral Rabies Vaccination