Outbreak of "zombie" virus among raccoons

A virus that can turn raccoons into zombies has been spreading for years and outbreaks have been reported in many parts of Canada. According to experts, raccoons infected with the canine distemper virus (CDV) are not afraid of humans. . Almost like a zombie or possessed animal, they stand up on their hind legs. They show their teeth and snarl.

Raccoons infected with this virus may come out during the day and fall to the ground like a "drunk raccoon". This virus kills raccoons. Also, raccoons infected with this virus may approach humans and if caught, they may attack.

If you see these raccoons, try not to approach or touch them, but contact local authorities. Toronto Animal Services (TAS) reported in April that the number of calls for sick and injured raccoons increased in 2024, up from 719 calls between January and April 2022 to 3,600 so far.

As the weather gets warmer, more animals are outside and therefore in more contact with each other, which allows the virus to continue to spread, experts say.

Symptoms of CDV are similar to rabies. If you are injured by a raccoon, see a doctor immediately and get a rabies vaccine.

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