Quebec officials warn raccoon rabies cases are rising

Public health officials in Quebec say rabies cases tied to raccoons are continuing to spread in areas south and east of Montreal. The province has reported 76 cases so far in 2026, which is already close to the total for all of 2025. Officials also noted that the last major outbreak in Quebec, from 2006 to 2009, led to 104 cases over three years. Health authorities in Montérégie and Estrie warned that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear, but said prompt treatment after exposure can prevent the disease from developing. They are advising people to avoid contact with unfamiliar wild or domestic animals, especially raccoons, skunks, and foxes.