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NLIS 4 April 17, 2003 (Forest Resources and Agrifoods) (Health and Community Services) Sheep from Daniel�s Harbour tests positive for rabies Provincial veterinarian Dr. Hugh Whitney today said that a sheep from Daniel�s Harbour, that died on Monday, has tested positive for rabies and is the 11th confirmed case of rabies on the Northern Peninsula. Dr. Whitney said the owner first noticed a change in the sheep�s behaviour on Friday, April 11, which included aggression, chewing wood, head butting and drooling until it eventually died on Monday morning, April 14. "With the history of confirmed cases of rabies in foxes in the area, including to the north and south of Daniel�s Harbour, the owner automatically thought it was rabies," said Dr. Whitney. "The owner also remembers seeing a fox on his property about a month ago and considers that was probably the time of contact." Dr. Whitney encourages livestock owners on the Northern Peninsula and adjacent areas to contact their Regional Veterinarian with the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods to discuss the option of having their own animals vaccinated. Also, with the number of wild and domestic animals that are now being submitted, officials would like to remind the public of the importance of wearing gloves when handling suspect wild or domestic animals. Dr. Whitney advises residents on the Northern Peninsula to continue to follow the recommendations previously circulated:
Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Faith Stratton, said the sheep�s owners, and their family members who have been in close contact with the animal, are being vaccinated and monitored by public health officials. Dr. Whitney also wishes to advise the general public that investigations continue into reports of strange acting foxes in the Cormack area. Results received from three foxes snared there in recent days have come back negative for the disease. 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 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� website at www.gov.nl.ca/agric or by contacting the following:
Media contact: 2003 04 17 4:05 p.m. |
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