Quebec public health officials are issuing urgent warnings as raccoon rabies spreads rapidly through regions south and east of Montreal. The province has confirmed 76 cases in the first half of 2026, nearing the 93 cases recorded during the entirety of 2025.
Health authorities in Montérégie and Estrie emphasize that rabies carries a 100 percent mortality rate once symptoms manifest in humans or animals. However, aggressive post-exposure prophylaxis remains effective if administered immediately after contact.
The current surge is significant when compared to historical data. Quebec recorded only 104 cases total during the three-year outbreak between 2006 and 2009. Officials advise the public to strictly avoid contact with wild mammals, specifically raccoons, skunks, and foxes, to prevent transmission.