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Rabies - The Most Concerning Zoonotic Disease
Monday, July 29, 2019
  By: Kingsdale Animal Hospital  In: Pet Health

Rabies - The Most Concerning Zoonotic Disease


There has been quite a lot of talk in the media lately about Rabies. Most recently, a young man in British Columbia died after being scratched by a bat who transmitted Rabies virus to him. (https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/rabies-death-bc-vancouver-island-bat-1.5213460)  This has spawned many of our clients to inquire about what exactly Rabies virus is and how they can protect themselves.


Firstly, let's talk about what a zoonotic disease is.


A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Rabies is the most known zoonotic disease, but other zoonotic diseases include intestinal worms (e.g. roundworms), Leptospirosis, Salmonella, E coli, and various strains of influenza viruses. There is a growing presence of zoonotic diseases in the world, which is why it is important to discuss them.


Rabies virus is a virus found in wild and feral mammals. It affects the brain and the salivary glands. Affected animals can display unusual behaviours including unprovoked aggression, stumbling, drooling, and fear of water. The most commonly affected species are foxes, wolves, skunks, raccoons, bats, dogs, and cats.


Rabies is transmitted from saliva into a wound or onto a mucous membrane (e.g. gums, cheeks, eyes). Bites are the most common form of transmission, however licks and scratches can also result in transmission. On average, an animal or person will start to show clinical signs of Rabies within three weeks of infection. Rabies virus is almost always fatal unfortunately, as most patients pass away within 10 days of showing clinical signs.


Now, let's talk about how you can protect yourself, your family, and your pets against Rabies virus

.

(1) Avoiding contact with wildlife or feral animals is very important. Please refrain from approaching wild or feral animals while hiking, camping, or even walking around the city. If you notice any sick or injured wild or feral animals, please call Vaughan Animal Services at 905-832-2281. Their officers are trained to handle both wildlife and domestic animals and can transport them to a facility able to provide medical care. For more info on Vaughan Animal Services, please see their website: http://www.vaughan.ca/services/residential/animal_services/Pages/default.aspx


(2) Make sure your pets are up to date on their Rabies vaccine. The vaccine is extremely effective at preventing transmission of Rabies virus. If you are unsure if your pet is up to date on the vaccine, please call us to inquire. This includes all dogs and cats, regardless if they stay indoors or go outdoors. Recently, a bat was found inside a home in Guelph which tested positive for Rabies. (https://globalnews.ca/news/5424756/bat-guelph-rabies/) This story demonstrates the risk that Rabies poses even to indoor animals. If you find a bat in your home please do not try to catch it, instead call animal control.


(3) If you think you or a family member have come in direct contact (bite wounds, licks, or scratches) with a wild animal (bat, fox, raccoon, skunk, coyote) or a feral animal (dog or cat) please consult with your doctor about the risk of Rabies transmission. Depending on the risk of transmission, you may receive a post-exposure prophylactic vaccine to protect yourself.

 



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