Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop Protects Public Health

For Immediate Release
July 31, 2009

Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop Protects Public Health
Bulletin

NEWS

Ontario will continue with one of the most successful rabies eradication programs in North America by distributing 1.3 million baits containing rabies vaccine this summer.

The vaccine will control rabies in skunks and foxes and help keep Ontario free of raccoon rabies.  The baits will be distributed in the following areas:

• Throughout southwestern Ontario
• In the Niagara region between Welland Canal and Niagara River, including Navy Island
• On Wolfe, Howe and Hill islands in St. Lawrence River. 

The flavoured baits immunize most skunks, foxes and raccoons that eat them.  Baits are small and khaki green, with a toll-free rabies hotline number stamped on them.  If you see baits, please leave them undisturbed.

In 2008, there were 79 rabies cases in Ontario, down from 106 in 2007.  Almost all cases were in southern Ontario.

QUICK FACTS

• Ontario has developed an oral rabies vaccine for raccoons and skunks that is proving to be the most effective in North America.
• Ontario has reduced rabies cases in the province by over 98 per cent since rabies control programs began 20 years ago.
• Ontario has been free of raccoon rabies since September 2005.
• Exposure to a bait is not harmful to people or pets.  However, if you or a pet come in contact with the vaccine in the bait, contacting a doctor or veterinarian as a precaution is recommended.

For More Information

Media Desk, Communications Services Branch, 416-314-2106

General Enquiries

Natural Resources Information Centre
1-800-667-1940
TTY 1-866-686-6072 (Hearing Impaired)