Avoiding Exposure to Rabies
Public Service Announcement
Avoiding Exposure to Rabies
As Nunavummiut prepare to enjoy time out on the land with their families this spring, the Department of Health is providing tips on how to avoid exposure to rabies.
Rabies is a deadly but preventable virus that can infect animals and humans. Many warm-blooded animals carry rabies, including foxes, wolves, and dogs. The virus is passed on when an infected animal bites, scratches or licks an open wound. The greatest risk in Nunavut of human exposure to rabies is from domestic dogs.
Rabies has no cure. If a person does not receive appropriate medical care after exposure, the infection is almost always fatal. A vaccine given by a medical professional soon after an animal bite can prevent rabies and save your life.
We can all do our part to stop rabies by doing the following:
- Be safe; don’t tease dogs.
- Avoid stray dogs.
- Supervise children around dogs.
- Vaccinate your pet regularly.
- Keep your pets tied on a leash or chain when outside.
- Contact the health centre immediately if you are bitten or scratched by an animal.
If you have concerns about a rabid animal, contact your local wildlife officer. If your dog is bitten by an animal, contact your regional environment health officer or local bylaw officer for instructions.
Regional environment health office contact numbers:
- Kivalliq region: 1-867-645-8071.
- Kitikmeot region: 1-867-983-4236.
- Qikiqtaaluk region: 1-867-975-4800.
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Media Contact:
Danarae Sommerville
Communications Specialist
Department of Health
867-975-5712
@email