NLIS 6
June 30, 2005
(Natural Resources)
(Health and Community Services)
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. |