A calf located in Wallace Ward has tested positive for rabies. This is the third confirmed rabid bovine in Perth County since 2015. “This positive result continues to remind us that rabies is still present in Perth County,” says Dale Lyttle, Senior Public Health Inspector.

Cow and calf Image/Agricultural Research Services
Cow and calf
Image/Agricultural Research Services

Rabies is almost always fatal. The rabies virus can be carried in the saliva of infected mammals, such as dogs, cats, foxes, skunks, raccoons and bats. It is normally spread to humans (or other mammals) through a bite, scratch, cut or contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose and eyes. “It’s important that residents make sure their dogs and cats, even barn cats, are up-to-date with their rabies vaccinations,” urges Lyttle.

“The infected calf was most likely in contact with a rabid wild animal, such as a skunk or fox,” explains Lyttle. The Health Unit is working with the farm operator to investigate potential human exposure.

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) is working with the farmer and veterinarian to implement a Precautionary Confinement Period (PCP) for the other cattle that were in the group with the infected animal.

To protect your family and your pets from rabies:

  • Keep pets up-to-date with their rabies vaccination. In Ontario, it’s the law that all cats and dogs over three months of age must be vaccinated against rabies
  • Teach children to stay away from wild animals, dogs and cats they don’t know or animals that are acting strangely. A strange acting animal could be a sign that it is sick
  • Talk to your veterinarian about vaccinating your livestock against rabies
  • Keep pets away from wildlife. Don’t let your pets run free in the neighbourhood and keep them indoors at night
  • Don’t feed, transport or relocate wildlife.