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Red fox tests positive for rabies in Cartwright Dr. Hugh Whitney, provincial veterinarian with the Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, today confirmed that a red fox has tested positive for rabies in the community of Cartwright. An analysis of samples collected from a red fox on April 25 by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency recently confirmed it had been infected with rabies. The red fox had been reported as acting in a strange manner in Cartwright. There has been no confirmed report of human or domestic animal contact. Residents of Labrador are reminded that rabies is always a risk in that region and therefore it is important that pets are vaccinated and kept under control. All animals demonstrating strange behaviour should be reported to local conservation officers, police or public health officials. As well, anyone coming in contact with a potentially rabid animal should immediately contact their local public health nurse, physician or other community health representative. Rabies is usually seen on a four to five year cycle in Labrador with the occasional case seen between these peak years. The last peak was in 2001 when 12 cases were confirmed in Labrador and surrounding area. For further information, contact: Dr. Hugh Whitney, Provincial Veterinarian, Department of Forest Resources and Agrifoods, (709) 729-6879, Media contact: Sonia B. Glover, Communications, (709) 729-6183. 2002 05 06 9:50 a.m. |
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