One of worst rabies outbreaks in recent memory took place in 2002.
After numerous positive cases, the situation finally started to ease up in July. But even then experts hesitated to officially declare the problem over.
Red foxes are the main carriers of rabies in this part of the province.
The Sudbury health unit documented about 45 positive cases. Some 46 people received anti-rabies treatment. All survived.
Post exposure treatment involves five needles of vaccine over a one-month period.
Patients initially get one vaccine shot and, based on their body weight, a predetermined quantity of a rabies immune globulin, a blood product that provides an immediate boost to the immune system.
Rabies is almost always fatal in humans but if vaccination is administered before the virus enters the nervous system the body can fight it. Treatment costs about $1,000 to $2,000 per person. The cost is covered by the province.
Rabies shots for pets are mandated by provincial law.
