We’re hearing more about rabies in the news. Here’s what to know about the virus

B.C. and Quebec health authorities are currently handling instances of rabies in wild animals that have come into contact with people or domestic pets. In Vancouver, the affected animal was a single skunk, while in certain areas of Quebec, an outbreak of the virus in raccoons has led to three cats contracting the infection.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) reported that the number of animal cases related to rabies fluctuates each year, but preliminary data indicates an increase in raccoon-related rabies cases, particularly in Quebec. From January to September of this year, 397 laboratory-confirmed rabies cases in animals were reported to the CFIA, compared to 281 cases reported in the entire year of 2025.

While rabies infections in humans remain extremely rare, public health officials strongly emphasize that prompt treatment is crucial. Rabies is a viral infection that targets the nervous system, including the brain. It affects the nerves near the site of infection and spreads to the spinal cord and brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies is transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals, with saliva being the primary mode of transmission.

In Canada, wild animals like bats, skunks, raccoons, and foxes are the primary carriers of the virus, but pets such as cats and dogs, as well as farm animals, can also contract it from these animals. Bats are the main carriers of rabies in Canada. Health experts advise individuals to seek medical attention immediately if they've had contact with a suspected bat, as their bites or scratches may be minuscule and easily overlooked.

If a person has come into contact with an animal potentially carrying rabies, they should immediately wash the affected area with soap and water and consult a healthcare provider. There is no treatment available for animals with rabies; the only way to confirm the infection in animals is by examining their brain after death. Humans require treatment before symptoms appear, which typically occurs between three to eight weeks after exposure.

The treatment involves a series of vaccines and an immunoglobulin injection, with the first vaccine administered immediately and subsequent shots on days three, seven, and fourteen. An immunoglobulin injection is also provided to start fighting the virus right away.

Side effects of the vaccine are generally mild and temporary, including fever, chills, sweats, and feeling unwell. To protect people and pets from rabies, the Wildlife Rescue Association of BC recommends avoiding direct physical contact with wildlife, especially if the animal appears sick, injured, unusually aggressive, lethargic, or disoriented. It also advises pet owners to ensure their pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and to keep them leashed and supervised outdoors to minimize contact with wildlife.