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NLIS 4 March 3, 2004 (Natural Resources) Rabies Eradication Program winding down The Department of Natural Resources announced today the Rabies Eradication Program is winding down and the subsidization of rabies vaccinations on the island of Newfoundland will soon end. The provincial government has been working to eradicate rabies from the island of Newfoundland ever since the first case was reported in St. Paul�s in December 2002. Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, said the program has involved many different activities including: subsidized vaccination of domestic animals; the collection and testing of wild animals; the use of vaccine bait to vaccinate the red fox population; and the education of the public in affected areas. Though work will continue up until the end of March, it is expected that, unless more cases are found, the program will finish at that time. Dr. Whitney indicated further information on the outcome of the Rabies Eradication Program will be made available once the program ends and a final report is compiled. However, Dr. Whitney wished to advise owners of domestic animals, including cats, dogs and livestock, that the rabies vaccination program for these animals ends March 31. Any animal owners in the affected areas - Northern Peninsula, Baie Verte Peninsula, West Coast south to Corner Brook - who still wish to take advantage of the subsidization program should contact their local veterinarian for an appointment. As rabies is a permanent risk in Labrador, the subsidization of pet vaccination in that region will continue. For further information please contact: Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications (709) 729-5282 2004 03 03 10:10 a.m. |
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