# North American rabies and wildlife safety concerns

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/north-american-rabies-and-wildlife-safety-concerns
> Updated: 2026-10-26T16:19:29.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Health and wildlife officials in North America have issued warnings regarding rabies risks and wildlife encounters. In Ottawa, the Ottawa Humane Society and Ottawa Public Health advised residents to maintain distance from wildlife and reminded medical professionals of the mandatory duty to report mammal bites due to the fatal nature of rabies.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 17 percent increase in rabies-related inquiries between July and August compared to the previous year. While human infections remain rare, the virus is circulating among wildlife such as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Health experts emphasize that while the disease is nearly 100 percent fatal once symptoms emerge, it is preventable through vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: United States health officials warn of rabies surge

The CDC and veterinary groups have issued warnings following a 17 percent rise in rabies-related inquiries in the US, highlighting risks from wildlife like bats and raccoons.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/united-states-health-officials-warn-of-rabies-surge

### 2026-10-24: Ottawa health and wildlife officials issue safety reminders

Ottawa officials are advising the public on wildlife safety and reminding healthcare providers of the mandatory duty to report animal bites to prevent rabies transmission.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ottawa-health-and-wildlife-officials-issue-safety-reminders

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Cite as: North American rabies and wildlife safety concerns. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/north-american-rabies-and-wildlife-safety-concerns