Rabies confirmed in fox from Nain

Provincial veterinarian Dr. Hugh Whitney of the Department of Natural Resources confirmed today a case of rabies has been identified in Nain.

On March 18, a red fox attacked some dogs in the northern Labrador community of Nain. A resident shot the fox and RCMP officers submitted it for rabies testing to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency�s laboratory in Ottawa. Test results have shown the fox had rabies. Officials are also looking into reports of a dead fox found near Voisey�s Bay.

"This disease is well-known throughout Labrador and though it is commonly seen in peaks occurring every four to five years, it can show up at any time," said Dr. Whitney. "The last cases were in 2001/02. Therefore, we would not normally expect another significant outbreak for a few more years."

Residents of Labrador are reminded to:

• keep domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, under control;
• vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies;
• avoid wild animals, particularly foxes and wolves;
• report to officials (conservation officers, veterinarians, police, public health officials) any sightings of strange acting wild or domestic animals;
• wash any bites or other areas of contact with potentially rabid animals immediately with soap and water;
• see your family physician immediately for treatment of any animal bites;
• report any bites or other significant contact with potentially rabid animals to public health officials immediately.

The provincial government has recently printed rabies education posters in English, Inuktitut and Innu-aimun. These are available through local agricultural, public health, and conservation offices or from the office of the Provincial Veterinarian.

Further questions can be directed to: Dr. Hugh Whitney, (709) 729-6879

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-5282

2004 04 06                                        3:50 p.m.