Raccoon rabies cases rise in southern Quebec

Public health officials in Quebec are warning residents in Montérégie and parts of the Eastern Townships to be careful as raccoon rabies spreads further into populated areas. The province has confirmed 76 rabies cases this year, including 55 in Montérégie, as part of an outbreak that began in 2024. Officials say the virus is moving quickly among wildlife, especially raccoons, which raises the chance of human contact. Health authorities are urging people to avoid wild animals, keep pets vaccinated, and seek medical advice right away after any bite, scratch, or saliva exposure. They also say rabies is not limited to rural areas and that summer may bring a higher risk of encounters with infected animals.