The U.S. Department of Agriculture is distributing hundreds of thousands of rabies vaccine baits across portions of Northwest Georgia this month in an effort to prevent the spread of rabies among wild raccoons.

The annual oral rabies vaccination program uses airplanes and helicopters to distribute the vaccine baits in designated areas. Helicopter distribution began earlier this month, while airplane distribution was scheduled to begin around October 20 and continue for approximately one week.

More than 500,000 vaccine baits are being distributed across the Georgia vaccination area as part of the effort to control raccoon rabies.

The baits contain a liquid vaccine inside a small packet surrounded by a fish-scented coating designed to attract raccoons. When an animal bites into the packet, the vaccine is released into its mouth, helping protect it against rabies.

Residents in areas where the baits are being distributed may notice low-flying airplanes and helicopters involved in the operation.

USDA officials advise residents who encounter one of the vaccine baits to leave it alone whenever possible. If a bait is found in a driveway, yard or another location where people or pets may come into contact with it, an intact packet can be moved into nearby brush using gloves or a towel.

The vaccine baits are intended for wildlife and should not be handled unnecessarily.

Pet owners are advised not to attempt to remove a bait from a dog’s mouth. Dogs that consume several baits may experience temporary stomach upset.

Anyone who comes into direct contact with the liquid vaccine should immediately wash the affected area with soap and water and contact their local health department for guidance.

According to the USDA, the vaccine used in the program cannot cause rabies.

The vaccination effort is part of a larger federal program aimed at preventing the spread of raccoon rabies throughout the eastern United States.

Residents with questions about the vaccine baits can contact USDA Wildlife Services at 1-866-487-3297.