Public health officials are warning people to look out for animals that could spread rabies this summer.
The health unit that serves Northumberland County is urging members of the public to reduce their exposure to these animals.
This includes wild animals like raccoons and bats, as well as dogs and cats.
In 2017, the health unit investigated 388 suspected rabies exposure cases and 249 of those involved dogs.
Richard Ovcharovich of Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge heath unit.
He says rabies is a “serious disease” caused by a virus.
Public health inspectors investigate each incident to determine if there is a risk of rabies to the person. If a domestic animal is involved, it is quarantined for 10 days to determine whether or not it is sick with rabies.
The health unit provides rabies vaccines if a health care provider says it’s necessary.
