NLIS 11
April 11, 2003
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)
(Health and Community Services)

 

Three more rabies cases on Northern Peninsula

Provincial veterinarian Dr. Hugh Whitney said today that there are three new confirmed cases of rabies on the Northern Peninsula, bringing the total number of known rabies cases in the region to 10.

Dr. Whitney said each case involved red foxes that were trapped on January 16, January 24 and February 10 in the vicinity of Western Brook Pond near the community of Daniel�s Harbour (Note: This is not the same Western Brook Pond located in Gros Morne National Park).

"These three red foxes were collected by a local trapper as part of the department�s surveillance program that was put in place after the initial discovery of rabies this past December in the St. Paul�s area," said Dr. Whitney. "The three animals were sent to federal government laboratories where they tested positive for rabies."

Dr. Whitney said that wildlife officials are reviewing this latest rabies information to determine if further vaccine baits will be dropped.

Meanwhile, he continues to advise residents on the Northern Peninsula to 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 province�s eradication program can be found on the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods� Web site 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, Forest Resources and Agrifoods, (709) 729-6183.

2003 04 11                                         4:35 p.m.


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