Calf tests positive for rabies in Perth County

A calf in Perth County has tested positive for rabies, making it the sixth animal in three years to test positive for the virus.

The Perth District Health Unit released the details on Friday. The health unit did not say when the cow became infected, only that it was located in Mornington Ward and that it likely came in contact with a rabid wild animal like a skunk or fox.

Rabies is almost always fatal and is carried in the saliva of infected mammals.

Within the last three years, two infected skunks have also been found.

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is working with the farmer involved as well as a veterinarian to confine other cattle that were in the same group as the infected calf.

Officials with the Perth District Health Unit are reminding people to protect themselves and their pets from rabies by keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccinations, teaching children to stay away from wild animals, consulting veterinarians about vaccinating livestock, keeping pets away from wildlife and not relocating or feeding wildlife.

Anyone who is bitten or scratched by an animal should wash the area with soapy water and seek medical advice immediately.