Rabid raccoons may be hitching rides

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HAMILTON, ON – The raccoons and skunks bringing raccoon rabies into southern Ontario could be hitching a ride on tractor-trailers.

Hamilton-area officials have recorded 84 positive cases since December, and test results suggest the animals are coming from distances that can’t be covered on four legs alone.

The region’s truck drivers are being asked to follow a series of steps if they find a furry stowaway, to help limit the spread of the disease.

Don’t set the animals free. First, contact the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry at 1-888-574-6656. They will determine if the animal should be collected by a professional wildlife company. And anyone who is bitten should contact local public health officials or their family doctor.

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John G. Smith is Newcom Media's vice-president - editorial, and the editorial director of its trucking publications -- including Today's Trucking, trucknews.com, and Transport Routier. The award-winning journalist has covered the trucking industry since 1995.


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