NewsDesk @bactiman63

A rabid dog that was imported from Iran on June 28, 2021 developed clinical signs of rabies on January 11, 2022 and was euthanized on January 16, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). The diagnosis of rabies was confirmed on January 19, 2022.

Results from virus characterization by genetic sequencing confirmed the dog was infected with a canine rabies virus variant previously reported in Iran and Iraq.

Follow-up investigation identified 42 human contacts. All human contacts were located and 37 were given post-exposure prophylaxis.

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All relevant domestic animal contacts were also traced and are being appropriately managed. The rabid dog had no contact with any other wild or domestic animals during the risk period for virus shedding.

This is the 2nd case of dog-mediated rabies reported in Canada since the 1960s; both cases were reported in the past 7 months and occurred in dogs imported from Iran (date of last occurrence then 12 Jul 2021).