Quebec battles surging raccoon rabies cases near Montreal in 2026

Quebec has recorded a rise in raccoon rabies cases, with 71 confirmed since the start of 2026. The majority have appeared in regions south and east of Montreal, including Estrie and Monteregie. Authorities are now taking action to stop the disease from spreading further. In 2025, Quebec reported 93 raccoon rabies cases for the entire year. The increase in early 2026 has raised concerns about the disease reaching Montreal. Rabies is a deadly virus, with a 100% fatality rate in humans once symptoms develop.

To combat the outbreak, wildlife officials have launched a vaccination campaign. Twenty-five teams are trapping raccoons and skunks, injecting them with vaccines, and releasing them back into the wild. The operation focuses on Estrie and Monteregie, where most cases have been detected. Three bat rabies cases have also been confirmed in the same period. While less common, bat rabies poses similar risks to public health.

The vaccination effort aims to create a barrier against raccoon rabies before it reaches Montreal. Officials continue monitoring the situation closely. If successful, the campaign could prevent further spread of the deadly virus.