Program Description The Northwestern Health investigates every animal bite with human exposure within 18 hours and ensures suspect animals are confined for observation. If, in the opinion of the Medical Officer of Health or Public Health Inspector, a person has been exposed to a suspected rabid animal, the Medical Officer of Health will release the post exposure prophylaxis vaccine.
The Northwestern Health Unit also provides information on rabies to municipalities, veterinarians, schools and the general public.
Investigations of Animal Bites The Northwestern Health investigates every animal bite with human exposure within 18 hours and ensures suspect animals are confined for observation. If, in the opinion of the Medical Officer of Health or Public Health Inspector, a person has been exposed to a suspected rabid animal, the Medical Officer of Health will release the post exposure prophylaxis vaccine.
Information on Rabies Rabies is an ongoing public health concern. Rabies has been found within the wildlife population in Northwestern Ontario.
Rabies is a disease that affects the central nervous system of humans and other mammals. The rabies virus is concentrated in the saliva and central nervous tissue of a rabid animal. Infection can occur if a rabid animal bites a person, if the saliva of a rabid animal enters a puncture, cut or scratch, or if the saliva comes in contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes. If not treated, rabies is invariably fatal to infected persons and mammals that develop symptoms.
The Northwestern Health Unit provides information on rabies to municipalities, veterinarians, schools and the general public. For more information, contact your local office of the
Northwestern Health Unit or click on one of the Program Quicklinks.