Ontario's first domestic case of human rabies since 1967

By Chris Whelan

A County of Brant resident is hospitalized after contracting rabies following suspected exposure in the Timiskaming region's Gowganda area, according to the Brant County Health Unit.

Rabies, a deadly viral infection, typically spreads through the saliva of infected animals like bats, skunks, foxes, or raccoons Once symptoms manifest, it is fatal in 100% of cases, as per the World Health Organization

This marks the first confirmed case of rabies in a County of Brant resident. Public Health Ontario's last recorded case of domestic human rabies in the province dates back to 1967. Nationally, there have been only 26 reported cases since 1924.

Dr. Rebecca Comley, Brant County's medical officer of health, expressed condolences and highlighted the seriousness of rabies, urging immediate medical attention for those in contact with rabies-carrying animals.

Ontario's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kieran Moore, linked the illness to contact with a bat, emphasizing patient privacy.

Rabies' incubation period ranges from two to three months, with initial symptoms including fever and neurological issues. Immediate medical attention is crucial upon any bat contact, regardless of visible marks, followed by a thorough cleansing and vaccination.

While human-to-human transmission is undocumented, close contacts of the patient are being monitored and provided post-exposure prophylaxis if necessary.