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Quebec Confirms Third Cat Rabies Case Amidst Spreading Disease
23 Oct
Summary
- A third cat in Quebec has been infected with raccoon rabies, prompting health alerts.
- The infected cat was found in Saint-Denis-sur-Richelieu in the Montérégie region.
- 313 confirmed cases of raccoon rabies have been reported in Quebec this year.
Raccoon rabies continues its spread across Quebec, with the province confirming a third infected cat this year. The latest case was identified on September 25 in Saint-Denis-sur-Richelieu, located in the Montérégie region. Following this discovery, the cat's owner and a veterinarian were exposed and subsequently received necessary medical treatment.
Government figures indicate a total of 313 confirmed raccoon rabies cases in Quebec during the current year. This marks an unusual trend, as experts note that cats are not typically primary carriers of this specific rabies strain. Concerns are raised about potentially declining public awareness regarding pet vaccinations.
Rabies, a viral disease usually transmitted through saliva via bites, is a serious health concern. While rabies is largely preventable with prompt post-exposure treatment, it is almost invariably fatal once symptoms manifest. Officials emphasize that all mammals are susceptible to the rabies virus, not just raccoons.
The province has historically battled raccoon rabies, with the disease having returned in 2024 after being previously under control. Vaccination programs, including bait distribution and "trap-vaccinate-release" initiatives, are ongoing to mitigate its spread. Reduced-cost pet vaccination clinics are also being offered until late November.
