Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop Protects Ontarians - August 10, 2011

 
Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop Protects Ontarians - August 10, 2011
 
 
 

August 10, 2011 3:46 PM

Ontario will continue with one of the most successful rabies eradication programs in North America by distributing 366,000 baits containing rabies vaccine this summer.

The vaccine will control the spread of rabies in skunks and foxes and help continue to keep Ontario raccoons free of rabies. The baits will be distributed in the following areas:

  • Throughout southwestern Ontario.
  • In the Niagara region between Welland Canal and Niagara River, including Navy Island.
  • On Wolfe, Howe and Hill islands in St. Lawrence River as well as a small area on the mainland near Brockville.

The flavoured baits immunize most skunks, foxes and raccoons that eat them. Baits are small and khaki green, with a toll-free rabies hotline number stamped on them. If you see baits, please leave them undisturbed.

QUICK FACTS

 
  • Ontario raccoons have been free of rabies since September 2005.
  • 2010 marked the lowest number of rabies positive animals with 'Ontario fox' strain in the province since the disease became established in Ontario in 1958.
  • Last year there were only 39 cases of rabies diagnosed in Ontario. Of these cases, only 10 were found in wildlife.
  • Ontario has reduced the number of rabies cases in the province by more than 99 per cent since rabies control programs began 20 years ago.
  • Exposure to a bait is not harmful to people or pets. However, if a person or a pet comes in contact with the vaccine in the bait, contacting a doctor or veterinarian as a precaution is recommended.

CONTACTS

  • Dennis Donovan
    Wildlife Research & Development Section
    705-755-2273
  • Media Desk
    Communications Services Branch
    416-314-2106



Ministry of Natural Resources
ontario.ca/natural-resources


 
 
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