As part of World Rabies Day, September 8, the Department of Natural Resources is joining the global effort to increase awareness about rabies by encouraging people to educate themselves about the disease.

Rabies is caused by a virus that most commonly spreads through the bite of an infected animal, such as a dog, cat, fox or bat. The natural movement of wildlife, be it foxes coming down the coast of Labrador or bats flying through the Atlantic Region, can result in the spread of the disease.

"Rabies is a reality in most parts of Canada, including this province," said Dr. Hugh Whitney, provincial veterinarian. "Therefore, it is important that residents of the province be aware of the importance of vaccinating dogs and cats against the disease and seeking medical attention in the event of an animal bite."

If someone has been bitten by a wild animal or pet, they should wash the area well and contact the local community health office or physician. Any sightings of possible rabid animals should be reported to local officials, be it the police, municipality, veterinarian or conservation officer.

Both fox and bat rabies have been identified in the province. Fox rabies exists on a permanent basis in Labrador and was found on the island portion of the province twice in recent memory, once in 1988 and again in 2002. The implementation of large scale eradication and public education programs has succeeded in making the island rabies-free.

The department is conducting ongoing research to better understand the impacts of rabies in this province. Studies are looking into how the disease moves in Labrador, while the role of bats in spreading rabies is being investigated on the west coast of the province.

As part of World Rabies Day, the department is distributing information brochures through private veterinary clinics, animal shelters, public health offices, Government Service Centres and other Provincial Government offices.

For more information, contact Dr. Whitney at 709-729-6879 or visit the departmental Web site at //www.gov.nl.ca/agric/animal_diseases/rabies/default.stm 

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