Rabies Prevention

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that attacks the central nervous system of mammals (warm blooded animals). It is a disease passed from animal to animal by bites. Humans can get the rabies disease as well and, if untreated, it is almost always fatal. Rabies is generally transmitted to humans from an infected wild or domestic animal by:

• a bite
• a lick to open wounds or cuts
• saliva introduced onto the muccous membranes of the nose, eyes or mouth

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, or if its saliva touches you, it could be a potential exposure to the rabies virus. You should take the following steps:

1. Wash the area with soap and water immediately
2. Seek medical attention and be sure to tell the provider what happened
3. Report the situation to Peterborough Public Health for further investigation, by calling 705-743-1000

If the situation involves someone’s pet, try to obtain the owner’s name and contact information.

The best ways to control the spread of rabies are:

1. Have all your pets and domestic animals vaccinated against rabies
2. Don’t approach and play with stray cats, dogs, or other animals
3. Don’t touch dead animals
4. Keep your pets under control. Don’t let them run free especially at night
5. Don’t touch or play with animals that look sick, even if you may want to help them
6. Don’t touch “friendly” wild animals that may wander into your yard or school yard