RABIES

Background

Background

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. In Canada, bats, foxes, and skunks are the most common transmitters of the disease. Rabies is transmitted through saliva, primarily via bite wounds. It can also be spread when infected saliva comes into contact with a scratch, open wound or the mucous membranes of the mouth, nasal cavity or eyes. When the virus enters an animal's body, it moves through the nerves to the brain, where it multiplies quickly. The virus then spreads to the salivary glands and other parts of the body. Once clinical signs appear, rabies is almost always fatal.

WHAT THE CWHC IS DOING

In conjunction with the government of Quebec and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the CWHC is involved in a surveillance program designed to detect and monitor the spread of the raccoon rabies virus variant in the province of Quebec. Several rabid raccoons and striped skunks have been detected as a result of this program. Results of this surveillance programme have helped to target areas for control measures such as rabies vector density reductions and vaccination programs involving wild raccoons. In addition, public prevention campaigns can be directed toward regions where this zoonosis is most prevalent.

Resources

RESOURCES