The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services will begin distributing oral rabies vaccine (ORV) baits in Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama starting next week, in a push to combat the spread of raccoon rabies across the eastern United States.

The operation, utilizing over 500,000 baits containing RABORAL V-RG ORV, will cover more than 7,000 square kilometers in Northwest Georgia and target raccoons and other wildlife. Typically conducted in the fall, the bait drops were postponed this year due to damage and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Helene in neighboring states. The USDA plans to conduct its usual baiting in October as originally scheduled.

“Protecting public health and wildlife from rabies is a top priority,” said a USDA spokesperson. “These bait drops are a crucial part of our ongoing efforts to prevent the westward spread of raccoon rabies.” The vaccine baits, which are safe for most animals to consume, are disguised to attract raccoons. When a raccoon bites into a bait, it releases the vaccine, immunizing the animal against rabies.

Airplane operations will run from April 7th to April 12th, followed by helicopter drops between April 12th and April 15th. Residents in the designated areas are advised to keep pets indoors during the baiting period if possible to ensure they do not consume the baits intended for wildlife. The USDA encourages residents with questions or concerns to contact their local Wildlife Services office for more information.

The rabies prevention program is a collaborative effort between federal, state, and local agencies, highlighting the commitment to safeguarding public health and wildlife populations.