Seventh case of rabies confirmed on Northern Peninsula

Provincial veterinarian Dr. Hugh Whitney today confirmed a seventh case of rabies on the Northern Peninsula.

Dr. Whitney said on March 17 a red fox was seen acting in a strange manner by a resident of Bellburns, just north of Daniel�s Harbour. "The animal was baring its teeth and approached the family dog. The home owner shot the fox and had the carcass sent in for testing and the results show the fox was rabid," said Dr. Whitney. "As a result of this new case in a community that has not yet had any reports of rabies, vaccine baits will be dropped around Bellburns to help limit further spread."

Dr. Whitney added that concerns are also being expressed in the area of Cormack due to numerous sightings of foxes acting strangely in the last week. In one case, a fox got into a fight with a family dog in Cormack. Wildlife officials have been trying to catch the animal and have set traps for other foxes in the area. So far, one fox has been collected but the one that contacted the dog is still unaccounted for.

Dr. Whitney stated, "There are many diseases that can affect wild animals that may resemble rabies. Since it is not often that you would see numerous animals with rabies in the same area over a short period of time, we must be cautious and not over-react."

He added that residents throughout the Northern Peninsula and surrounding areas should continue to follow the recommendations previously circulated:

1. Vaccinate all pets.

2. Keep pets under control at all times.

3. Control stray animals in communities.

4. Avoid and report all strange acting animals.

Health officials are again reminding the public that any bites, scratches, or other areas of contact with wild animal saliva should be washed immediately with soap and water and individuals should then contact their local physician or public health office for further advice. Any other individuals concerned about exposure to any potentially rabid animals should also contact their local physician or public health office.

More information on rabies and the eradication program can be found on the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods� website at www.gov.nl.ca/agric or by contacting the following:

Dr. Hugh Whitney
Provincial Veterinarian
Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods
(709) 729-6879

Dr. Faith Stratton
Chief Medical Officer of Health
Department of Health and Community Services
(709) 729 - 3430

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, (709) 729- 6183.

2003 04 10                                    4:45 p.m.