October 28, 2015
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is a virus present in the raccoon population, but at low levels. Distemper cases in raccoons tend to spike in the fall.
Raccoons with distemper may approach people, or curl up to sleep in open areas in close proximity to people. They generally act disoriented or lethargic, but can become aggressive if cornered, and may have seizures.
CDV is a viral disease affecting animals in the canine families, in addition to some other mammals. It affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems. Raccoons, dogs and skunks can be infected. The disease is most often fatal and animals that recover may display permanent neurological damage.
There is no risk to human health. However, dogs that have not been vaccinated for distemper can become infected if they come in contact with a raccoon with this viral disease.
Residents are asked not to approach or feed raccoons. Instead, if they notice a raccoon displaying abnormal behaviour, they should contact Toronto Animal Services at 416-338-PAWS (7297).
Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms
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Media contact: Tammy Robbinson, Strategic Communications, 416-338-3761, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
