Canada: First human rabies case in Ontario in over 50 years
Health officials with the Brant County Health Unit (BCHU) report the confirmation of a human case of rabies in a resident of Brantford-Brant.
The suspected exposure of the case was from a bat in the Gowganda area of the Timiskaming region. The individual is currently hospitalized.
“Our heartfelt thoughts are with this individual and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Rabies, though rare, is a serious virus in humans. If you have direct contact with any animal known to carry rabies, you should seek immediate medical attention.”
Dr. Rebecca Comley, Medical Officer of Health, Brant County Health Unit
Rabies cases in humans are rare. There has never been a confirmed case of rabies in a Brantford-Brant resident. Ontario’s last domestic case of human rabies occurred in 1967. There have been 26 human cases in Canada since 1924.
Rabies is a viral infection that causes brain and spinal cord inflammation. It is typically spread to humans through direct contact with saliva or mucous of an infected animal, such as through a bite or scratch. Bats, skunks, foxes, and raccoons are the most common animals to have rabies in Canada. Even tiny bites or scratches, which can be difficult to see, can transmit the virus.
To date, there has never been a documented case of human-to-human transmission of rabies virus. As a precaution, family members and other close contacts are being assessed and offered post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), as needed.
If you have direct contact with a bat, or if any animal known to carry rabies bites or scratches you, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention right away to review your risk and treatment options.
Useful information.