Rabies control program helps limit the spread of rabies in humans

 

Rabies is an infectious disease caused by a virus that is spread by infected mammals to other mammals (including humans) through saliva. This can occur by biting, contact with the virus through an open cut, sore or wound, and by contact through mucous membranes (mouth, nasal cavity, eyes). The virus travels through the nervous system to the brain where it reproduces, and then travels through the nerves to other parts of the body. 

 

In humans, early symptoms may include numbness around the site of the bite, fever, headache and malaise. Later symptoms may include muscle spasms and asphyxiation. In animals, symptoms include partial paralysis and either submissive or aggressive behavior. In both humans and animals, once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is always fatal.

 

The Renfrew County and District Health Unit has a rabies control program to help limit the spread of rabies in humans. Hospitals and physicians are required to report all animal bites and scratches to the Health Unit. The suspect animal is then quarantined for ten days. If the animal is alive and healthy at the end of this period, there is no risk to the person bitten of contracting rabies.

 

In 2006, we investigated and quarantined 120 animals that were involved in biting or scratching incidents. We did not have any positive cases of rabies during this period. However, 15 people in Renfrew County had to be given anti-rabies vaccine for precautionary purposes. To help spread the message about the importance of rabies, Public Health Inspectors provide presentations to elementary school children.

 

The best way to protect yourself and your pets from rabies is through prevention. It is mandatory in Renfrew County to have your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies. Pets should not be allowed to run loose, and all stray animals and wildlife should be avoided. Wear gloves if you need to handle dead or sick animals. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, the wound should be thoroughly cleansed with soap and water. Medical attention should then be sought to ensure that the incident is reported to the Health Unit.