Region of Peel Warning Residents Of Rabid Animal In Brampton

Brampton | Ontario | Latest News |

Published August 1, 2019 at 6:03 pm

The Region of Peel’s Public Health Department has received test results confirming that a rabid bat in Brampton.

The Region of Peel’s Public Health Department has received test results confirming that a rabid bat in Brampton.

For those of you who are unaware, rabies is a viral disease that can cause severe damage to the brain and spinal cord to humans. If it is left untreated before symptoms appear, rabies will lead to death. The rabies virus is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite or a scratch.

This is the first confirmed case of rabies in 2019 for an animal tested in the Peel Region.

“Transmission of rabies by bats to humans is rare,” states Medical Officer of Health for the Region of Peel Dr. Jessica Hopkins. “However, residents who may have had physical contact with a bat should see a physician immediately to be assessed.”

Residents should go to a doctor to get immunization with the rabies vaccine if they have physical contact with a potentially rabid animal such as a bat, skunk or raccoon. The vaccine is extremely effective but must be administered before symptoms appear.

It is not always possible to identify if an animal has rabies. Rabid animals may move slowly and be unresponsive to loud noises. Bats may lose the ability to fly and remain active during daylight hours.

People should keep their children away from any unknown, wild, stray or aggressive animals. They should stay away from feeding or keeping wild animals as pets and touching dead or sick animals. If physical contact is made with any wild animal, immediately wash the area of contact using soap and water to reduce the chances of an infection.

Residents should ensure their pet’s rabies vaccinations are up to date and keep pets on a leash. If your pet comes into contact with wild animals, see a veterinarian.

Lastly, report all animal bites or scratches to Peel Region Health Department at 905-799-7700.

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