Calf Tests Positive for Rabies in Huron County

March 7, 2017

Huron County, ON – The Huron County Health Unit has been notified that a calf from the Blyth area submitted for testing on February 27, 2017 was positive for the rabies virus. The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) is working with the farmer and veterinarian to implement a Precautionary Confinement Period (PCP) for the other cattle that were in the group with the infected animal.

The Health Unit would like to take this opportunity to remind the public to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure their pets are immunized against rabies.

Dogs and cats often get into fights with wild animals. If you witness a fight, or if your dog or cat comes home with injuries from a fight and you believe it may have been bitten or scratched by a rabid animal:

  • Do not directly handle your pet as there may be fresh saliva from a rabid animal on its coat; wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards,
  • Isolate your pet; and,
  • Contact your local veterinarian

Help control the spread of the rabies virus by being a responsible pet owner. Make sure that all dogs and cats, including those in the barn, are vaccinated against rabies. Pet owners in Huron County are required by law (Regulation 567/90) to have all cats and dogs three months of age or over immunized against rabies.

To reduce the risk of being bitten by a rabid animal avoid handling any wild, unknown or stray animals. Parents are encouraged to teach their children to stay away from any animal they do not know. If you see a baby animal that appears to be orphaned, leave it alone. Chances are its mother is nearby. The possible danger to you outweighs the good you might do for the animal. Notify the nearest animal control agency or humane society branch instead. If you or someone in your family makes direct contact with an animal that may have rabies, seek medical attention immediately.

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Creating Healthy Communities Together

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For more information contact:

Angela Sturdy, Executive Assistant
519.524.8394 (ext 2010)
asturdy@huroncounty.ca
Our spokesperson is: Patrick Landry, Public Health Inspector. Our media contact will connect you to our spokesperson on this topic.