Ottawa Public Health issues rabies exposure reporting reminder

Ottawa Public Health has issued an annual reminder to physicians, nurse practitioners, veterinarians, and police officers regarding the mandatory duty to report animal bites and potential rabies exposures. Under Regulation 557 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act, any mammal bite or contact conducive to rabies transmission must be reported to the medical officer of health as soon as possible.

Rabies is a fatal infection transmitted through bites, wounds, or contact with mucous membranes. Prompt reporting is essential to ensure individuals receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), including vaccines and immunoglobulin, which are managed by Ottawa Public Health.

In 2024, Ottawa Public Health recorded nearly 200 reports of potential bat exposures, leading to post-exposure treatment for over 100 individuals. The agency noted that rabies continues to be detected in bat populations within Ottawa and Ontario.