British Columbia health officials issue rabies and bear warnings

Health officials in British Columbia have issued a rabies warning for the Kootenay Lake region after a skunk tested positive for the virus. The infection was confirmed by Interior Health and the BC Centre for Disease Control. The skunk is believed to have been infectious between August 15 and September 4, 2026. Interior Health is advising anyone who may have had contact with a skunk in the area to seek medical assessment, noting that while rabies is rare in the region, it is typically fatal if not treated promptly.

Separately, the Village of Keremeos has issued bear warnings following sightings in all areas of the village. This follows similar warnings in Penticton and the West Bench area. Residents are being urged to take precautions to avoid attracting bears as they prepare for winter hibernation, including securing garbage, cleaning barbecue grills, and removing bird feeders.