Rabies is a disease of the central nervous system that affects humans and other mammals. It is usually fatal if you are infected and not treated. The rabies virus is concentrated in the saliva and central nervous tissue of a rabid animal. Infection can occur if a rabid animal bites a person, if the saliva of a rabid animal enters a cut or scratch, or if the saliva comes in contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes.

This lethal virus still exists in most parts of the world. At one time, Ontario had a high number of rabid animals reported. Since 1992, the number of rabies cases in Ontario has declined significantly. Be aware of the presence of wild animals in your neighbourhood, particularly where children and pets play. Be familiar with the signs of rabies in both domestic and wild animals including bats.

The Rabies Research and Development Unit at the Ministry of Natural Resources has a strategic plan in place to manage and research rabies in wildlife. This includes leading a program of preventative action involving local organizations as well as the provincial and federal governments. For more information on wildlife rabies prevention programs such as trap-vaccinate-release and aerial baiting, contact the Ministry of Natural Resources Rabies Information Line at
1-888-574-6656.

The goal of public health units is to prevent the occurrence of rabies in humans. This is achieved by increasing the public's awareness of the disease and by providing post-exposure treatment to persons exposed to animals suspected or known to have rabies.
For more information on rabies, contact your local public health unit.

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Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF)

Ministry of Natural Resources

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) – Rabies

CFIA – Countries recognized as rabies free for cats and dogs

The Rabies Reporter

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