Due to recent reports of rabies in northern N.Y. we are releasing important information to the community.

What is rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that can attack the central nervous system of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Even though rabies is usually found in wild animals such as bats, raccoons and skunks, household pets also provide a link for the transmission of rabies to humans. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.

How is rabies spread?

Rabies is transmitted through saliva - primarily via bite wounds. It can also be spread when infected saliva comes into contact with a scratch, open wound or the mucous membrane, such as those in the mouth, nasal cavity or eyes.

When the virus enters an animal’s body, it spreads through the nerves to the brain, where it multiplies quickly. The virus then moves to the salivary glands and other parts of the body.

Preventing human illness:

If treatment is given promptly after being exposed to or bitten by an animal that could have rabies, human illness can be prevented. The following actions are recommended:

Immediately wash the wound or exposed surface with soap and water.

Remove any clothing that may have been contaminated.

Seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Preventing the spread of rabies:

There are some simple ways that you can help prevent the spread of rabies:

Vaccinate pets against rabies as recommended by your veterinarian.

Don’t let pets roam free.

Avoid wild or domestic animals that are behaving strangely.

Keep a safe distance from wild animals, even if they look healthy. Do not attempt to raise orphaned wild animals.

Attempt to keep bats from getting inside your home.

Teach children not to touch wild or pet animals they don’t know.

Questions? Call MCA Compliance-613-575-2250 ext. 2415 or Community Health Program-613-575-2341 ext. 3220