Look, but Don’t Touch: Health Unit Brings Awareness to Animal Bite Prevention

NORTH BAY, ON – People can get rabies when they are bitten or scratched by an animal with the virus, or if the animal's infected saliva enters an already existing open cut or wound. One can also get rabies if the infected saliva makes contact with the person’s eyes, nose, or mouth.

Steps to Prevent Animal Bites and Rabies:

You may not be able to tell if an animal has rabies by just looking at it. It is best to avoid direct contact with wild animals. Do not feed them, touch them or handle them
Store all garbage containers with secure lids, so you do not attract wildlife
Vaccinate pets each year and keep them leashed to prevent disease spread
Help educate your children about the risks of touching wild animals
Report unusual animal behaviour to the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 or wildlife authorities. Unusual behaviour can include:

nocturnal animals (e.g. bats, raccoons) out in the daytime
lost fear of humans
heavy drooling
abnormal barking in dogs
back legs not moving or other signs of paralysis
difficulty eating or drinking
aggressiveness, or attacks on objects or people

If bitten or scratched:

Wash the wound with soap and water immediately. Try to remove as much of the animal's saliva as possible
Avoid splashing wash water into your eyes, nose, or mouth
Contact your doctor, visit the Emergency Department of your local hospital, or go to a walk-in clinic
Report the bite to Health Unit online or by calling 705-474-1400

– 30 –

Media Inquiries

Kylie Wurdell, Public Relations Specialist

P: 705-474-1400, ext.5221 or 1-800-563-2808

E: communications@healthunit.ca