Rabies Virus

The preferred method for controlling endemic rabies and preventing animal to human rabies infection is through regular and integrated vaccination programs. Domestic dogs, cats and horses are vaccinated against rabies on a 1, 2 or 3 year schedule depending on their risk of exposure and vaccine type. There are several commercial varieties of vaccines available but one of the most common is the killed “IMRAB vaccine” from Merial. Livestock including cattle and sheep can also be vaccinated against rabies.
 

People are not generally vaccinated against rabies unless they are members of a high risk group for exposure to rabid animals. These individuals include veterinarians, lab workers and animal control officers.

 

For a full list of available vaccines in Canada for both domestic and wild species go to the CFIA website at:

 

http://active.inspection.gc.ca/scripts/database/vetbio_submit.asp?lang=e&manufacturer=all&species=11