Rabies: Your pets and you
Rabies is a contagious disease that affects the nervous system in warm-blooded animals, including humans. In most cases the main carriers of rabies are foxes, skunks, raccoons, and bats. The rabies virus is transmitted by saliva from an infected animal's bite, scratch or lick. Some signs of rabid animals may include loss of fear, restless and aggressive behaviour, and depression.
Although there is no cure for rabies, prevention measures are available. You can do your part by keeping your pets safe at home, reporting stray or sick animals to authorities, and always keep your pets vaccinations up-to-date.
If any animal bites you it's very important for you to wash the bite with soap and water for at least five minutes, apply an antiseptic, call your doctor, and contact Toronto Public Health. If you are out of the Toronto area, contact the local public health department.
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