Rabies Alert: Raccoon Case Near St. Stephen

A presumptive positive case of rabies has been detected in a raccoon in Little Ridge, a community northwest of St. Stephen, New Brunswick. The New Brunswick Provincial Veterinary Laboratory identified the case, and confirmation testing is currently in progress. In response to this finding, the province has scheduled the distribution of rabies vaccine baits along specific routes and surrounding areas.

Local authorities have notified residents about the situation, issuing alerts to ensure community awareness. Residents are strongly encouraged to keep their pets on leashes for the next two weeks, especially following the bait distribution. While the vaccine baits are not harmful to pets, direct handling should be avoided. Furthermore, all pet owners are urged to ensure their animals are current with rabies vaccinations and to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.

The detection of this case highlights the ongoing need for the provincial veterinary laboratory, which faces potential closure. Experts emphasize the effectiveness of the rabies vaccine and the serious risks associated with unvaccinated animals contracting the virus, which is transmitted through saliva and is nearly always fatal once clinical signs appear.