Rabies can be passed to humans through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. The virus attacks the brain and nervous system and is not curable once symptoms develop. The health unit investigates every reported animal bite to assess for potential rabies exposures.
What to do if an animal bites or scratches you
If you have been bitten or scratched by a dog, cat, livestock or a wild animal, such as a bat or raccoon:
- Immediately and thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water, then flush the area with water.
- If there is an animal owner, try to get their name, address or phone number.
- Seek medical attention from your health-care provider, go to a walk-in clinic or hospital emergency department promptly.
- Report the incident to the health unit at 705-721-7520 x 8811 or 1-877-721-7520 x 8811. You can also complete the Rabies and Animal Exposure Incident Report and fax it to the Rabies Program at 705-725-8132.
A public health inspector will follow up with you to assess your risk of rabies exposure and provide next steps based on the assessment.
Dog and Cat Health Observation Period
When a person is bitten or scratched by a domestic animal, such as a dog cat, a public health inspector may implement an observation period to ensure the animal did not have rabies at the time of the exposure. Healthy animals are not removed from their owners during this observation period. If the animal remains healthy and free of rabies symptoms during the observation period, there is no risk of rabies transmission to the exposed person. The owner must provide proof of the pet’s current rabies vaccination to the health unit.
