Rabies case confirmed in Wabush

The provincial veterinarian with the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, Dr. Hugh Whitney, confirmed today another case of rabies in Labrador, bringing to nine the total number of confirmed rabies cases in Labrador since November 2000.

Dr. Whitney said laboratory results from a fox that attacked two dogs on July 20 in Wabush have confirmed that the fox had rabies. "The fox in question had porcupine quills in its face, was frothing at the mouth and acting aggressively. As a result, testing was done which proved positive for rabies," said Dr. Whitney.

He added that although rabies activity has diminished in most of Labrador, it is persisting in Labrador West where all recent suspicious and confirmed cases have occurred. 

"Conservation officers report that the number of foxes being sighted in this area is still high. Therefore, residents are advised to remain aware of this threat which can continue into the fall," said Dr. Whitney. 

Labrador residents are reminded that:

• Any sightings of suspicious animals should be reported to conservation officers or local police.
• All dogs should be vaccinated and kept under control.
• All potential human contact should be reported to local public health officials.
• Suspect carcasses should not be handled by the general public.

Complete information on all cases can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/agric

Contact: Dr. Hugh Whitney
Animal Health Division
Forest Resources and Agrifoods
(709) 729-6879

Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

2001 07 25                                                             3:15 p.m.