Skunk tests positive for rabies near Wallenstein
Posted Jul 7, 2017 03:53:56 PM.
Last Updated Jul 7, 2017 06:26:40 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A warning from the Region to pet owners, after a second animal tested positive for rabies in Wellesley Township since late May.
Public Health officials say a rabid skunk located near Wallenstein tested positive for the potentially deadly disease on Friday, and just a month earlier a fox tested positive for rabies in this same area.
While there have been no other instances of animals testing positive so far this year, Brenda Miller, Manager of Infection Control, says it’s a reminder that rabies is present in our region.
“What we know is that we have a concern about rabies out there, and that people do need to take precautions,” she says.
The rabies virus can be carried in wild animals such as foxes, skunks and raccoons. It’s normally spread to other animals — and even people — through a bite, cut or scratch.
Currently it’s believed there was no human contact with the skunk.
Miller says right now Public Health’s priority is letting the community know we have to be aware of rabies and take precautions, and is also alerting veterinarian offices in Wellesley and some of the local venues.
Meantime the province has begun its rabies vaccine program, which will see ground crews hand-drop baits in Kitchener later this summer.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, wash the area thoroughly with soapy water, seek medical attention immediately and then contact Region of Waterloo Public Health at 519-575-4400.
