Rabies control measures in western New Brunswick

FREDERICTON  – The provincial government is continuing its rabies prevention and control measures in western New Brunswick this summer.

“Our annual Wildlife Oral Rabies Vaccination Program is important as we continue work to prevent and control the spread of rabies in our province,” said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Margaret Johnson. “Our efforts are making a difference, but we must remain vigilant to prevent rabies from reaching domestic animals or humans.”

There has not been a confirmed case of rabies in a raccoon, skunk or fox in New Brunswick in the past two years.

Oral rabies vaccine bait for raccoons, skunks and foxes will be distributed by hand until early August in St. Stephen, Saint Andrews, St. George, Ministers Island, Elmsville, Utopia, Pennfield, Seeleys Cove, Blacks Harbour, Campobello Island, McAdam, Woodstock, Centreville and Waweig. The campaign could be extended to ensure any newly identified risk areas are covered.

Oral rabies vaccine baits are distributed on Woodstock First Nation lands each year, as well.

In addition to hand distribution, an aircraft will be used to distribute bait in the southwestern part of the province Aug. 9-12.

The vaccine poses little risk to humans or domestic animals. Any vaccine packets found in the woods should be left alone.

People are urged to take steps to protect themselves, their families, their pets and any livestock from rabies by keeping a safe distance from wildlife, refraining from relocating wildlife, ensuring the vaccinations of pets are up to date, and seeking medical attention promptly if they have been bitten or scratched by an animal that could potentially be rabid.