Brantford – The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry notified the Brant County Health Unit (BCHU) after two raccoons in Brantford/Brant County tested positive for rabies, bringing the total number of raccoons with positive results for rabies in the area to five since December 2015.
“It is important the public understands the situation is not limited to rural areas,” said Dr. Lock, Medical Officer of Health at the BCHU. “We encourage the public to remain aware, keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccination and avoid contact with wildlife, unfamiliar animals and animals acting strangely.”
If any animal, bites or scratches you, wash the wound with soap and water, get medical attention right away and contact the Brant County Health Unit: 519-753- 4937 ext. 470.
Try to collect as much information as possible about the animal, including — location, owner information, phone number, address and type of animal. BCHU investigates all cases where an animal has been in contact with a person. If you think your pet or livestock has been in contact with a rabid animal, contact your veterinarian.
If you suspect an animal is acting strangely and you have not been in direct contact with it, contact the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry Rabies Hotline: 1-888-574-6656.
For more information about rabies, protecting yourself and your pets, the wildlife vaccine baiting program and laws in place to help control rabies and support rabies investigations visit www.bchu.org.
