Canada reports surge in rabies cases, particularly in Quebec raccoons

Canada is experiencing a significant increase in rabies activity, with 397 laboratory-confirmed animal cases reported between January and September 2026, surpassing the total of 281 cases recorded in all of 2025. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) attributes the rise largely to increased rabies activity in raccoons, specifically within Quebec.

In Quebec, officials have confirmed 313 cases of raccoon rabies this year. The outbreak has also affected domestic pets, with three cats testing positive for the virus. One recent case in Saint-Denis-sur-Richelieu resulted in the exposure of both the owner and a veterinarian, both of whom received treatment. To mitigate the spread, provincial authorities are conducting “trap-vaccinate-release” operations in several regions, including Brossard and Longueuil, and have deployed vaccine baits via hand and air in other areas.

In British Columbia, public health officials are also responding to rabies in wild animals, including a skunk in Vancouver. While animal cases are rising, health officials emphasize that human infections remain extremely rare in Canada. However, they warn that the disease is nearly 100 per cent fatal if symptoms develop before treatment is administered.