Rabies confirmed in bat found in the Paisley area

Test results received June 27, have confirmed rabies in a bat found in the Paisley area.

No human exposure was associated with this incident – the bat was submitted for testing as part of an animal surveillance program facilitated between the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care and the Canadian Wildlife Health Co-operative.

Rabies is a deadly disease of the central nervous system that affects humans and other mammals. The virus is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and can spread through a bite, cut or scratch, or if the saliva comes in contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes. Rabies is fatal to animals and, without timely treatment, will cause death in humans.

“This is the first time since 2013 that a rabid animal has been identified in Grey-Bruce,” said Dr. Christine Kennedy, medical officer of health. “It is a reminder that we must remain vigilant against the threat of this disease.”

Exposure to rabies can be prevented by:

• Not feeding or touching a wild or unknown animal, an animal acting strangely or an animal that appears to be sick or injured
• Keeping pets under control at all times
• Immunizing cats, dogs and livestock against rabies; in Grey-Bruce, it is the law to immunize cats, dogs and riding horses

For further information, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit the website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.