Rabies is a viral disease that effects the central nervous system of mammals. If untreated rabies is almost always fatal in humans. Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal via a bite, or if the saliva is introduced into a person’s mouth, nose, eyes, open cut, sore or wound. If you think you have been exposed to the rabies virus, you should seek medical assessment right away.
What to do if you are bitten or scratched by an animal or bat |
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Collect animal owner information (name, address and phone number), if possible. Immediately and thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water for about 15 minutes. Contact your primary health care provider, as soon as possible. They may recommend post exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Always report an animal bite or scratching incident to KFL&A Public health. To report an animal bite, call KFL&A Public Health at 613-549-1232 or email. Include your name and phone number. If possible, collect the name and address of the animal owner, as well as the animal’s vaccination record. Read the latest version of the Rabies prevention and control protocol from the Ontario Ministry of Health. |
Rabies vaccine – post exposure |
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If deemed necessary, a person potentially exposed to the rabies virus will receive treatment to protect them from getting rabies, this treatment consists of:
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How to protect your pets from rabies |
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All dogs and cats over the age of three months in Ontario must be immunized against rabies. Owners must ensure their pets, including indoor cats, are up to date with their rabies vaccine. View a list of upcoming rabies vaccine clinics being held in or around the KFL&A area. |
Animal bite investigations |
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Any person with knowledge of an animal bite involving a mammal is required to report the incident to KFL&A Public Health. In accordance with Ontario Regulation 557 and the Ontario Pubic Health Standards. KFL&A Public Health will investigate reported animal biting incidents to minimize the risk of rabies transmission in humans. A Public Health Inspector (PHI) who receives information related to an animal bite will ensure the biting-animal is confined and isolated for a ten-day observation period. The biting-animal is to be confined to their home, and isolated from all other animals and persons, except the person caring for the biting-animal. The owner is to observe their animal for changes in behaviour or signs of illness, and report these to KFL&A Public Health immediately. A PHI will observe the biting-animal at the end of the 10-day observation period to ensure the animal is alive and healthy. |