NLIS 5
May 12, 2004
(Natural Resources)

 

Rabies confirmed in fox from Natuashish

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

On May 5, a fox was found dead in the yard of a resident of the community. Federal agencies (RCMP and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency) collected the sample and testing confirmed the fox had rabies. This is the second case of rabies confirmed in Labrador this season. The first case was in a fox that was shot in Nain on March 18. Officials are also looking into reports of three dead foxes found near Voisey�s Bay.

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 05 12                                       3:50 p.m.


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