Fox tests positive for rabies

Dr. Hugh Whitney, provincial veterinarian, today confirmed that a fox killed in the community of Makkovik in early June has tested positive for rabies.

RCMP in the community killed the fox after it attacked a local dog. The fox was acting aggressively and had porcupine quills in its face. Though not conclusive, an animal with these quills in its face suggests rabid behaviour as foxes are usually more cautious of these animals. The animal was sent to Canadian Food Inspection Agency laboratory facilities where the positive rabies confirmation was made.

In addition, reports are being made from this community of strange-acting foxes chasing people and of local dogs being put down due to suspected rabies.

Dr. Whitney says this latest case illustrates that the general public must remain vigilant and always take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading rabies. "Residents are reminded that rabies can occur in any Labrador community at any time. It is important that all communities in Labrador take measures where possible to implement an active dog control and rabies vaccination program."

Dr. Jane McGillivray, medical officer of health for Labrador said, "All cases of animal bites in Labrador should be reported immediately to public health officials so that proper investigation and immunization can be provided if necessary."

In order to control the spread of rabies, health officials are encouraging residents of Labrador to take the following precautions:

• Keep domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, under control;
• Vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies;
• Avoid wild animals particularly foxes and wolves;
• Report any sightings of strange-acting wild or domestic animals; to conservation officers, veterinarians, police or public health officials;
• Wash any bites or other areas of contact with potentially rabid animals immediately with soap and water;
• Immediately go to your health clinic or emergency department for treatment of any animal bites;
• Immediately report any bites or other significant contact with potentially rabid animals to public health officials.

The provincial government has rabies education posters in English, Inuktitut and Innu-aimun. These contain important information related to rabies and can be obtained through local conservation, wildlife, agriculture and public health offices or from the office of the provincial veterinarian.

Further questions can be directed to:
Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, (709) 729-6879
Dr. Jane McGillivray, Medical Officer of Health, (709) 896-1043

Media contact:
Carmel Turpin, Communications, Natural Resources, (709) 729-5282, 685-4624
Carolyn Chaplin, Communications, Health and Community Services, (709) 729-1377, 682-5093

2005 06 30                                12:40 p.m.