NOTICE: Oral Vaccination Area
Cooperating Federal, State, and county agencies are conducting an oral raccoon rabies baiting project in western Pennsylvania. A vaccine packet is coated in fishmeal or vanilla which is very tasty to raccoons. The baits are dropped from low-flying airplanes or helicopters, or by local teams on foot or in vehicles. The vaccine can NOT cause rabies. This year’s operation will run July 31st thru September 1st, 2023.
What if I find rabies baits?
Baits should be left alone – but intact baits can be moved if they are found where children and pets play. Damaged baits should be bagged and disposed in the trash.
- Wear gloves or use a plastic bag when picking up the baits.
- Toss intact baits into a fencerow, woodlot, ditch, or other raccoon habitat areas.
- Wash your hands after any skin contact with a bait.
What if my pet eats a bait?
- A few baits are not harmful, although eating a lot may cause vomiting or diarrhea.
- Do not risk getting bitten by taking a bait away from your pet.
- Confine your pet for a couple of days and check the area for more baits.
- If your pet eats a bait, avoid your pet’s saliva for 24 hours, and wash skin or wounds that may have been licked.
For information about the oral rabies baiting program, contact:
USDA Wildlife Services: 1-866-487-3297
PA Department of Agriculture: 1-717-772-2852
PA Department of Health Information Line: 1-877-PA Health
Erie County Department of Health: 1-814-451-6700
Allegheny County Department of Health: 1-412-350-4046
For information concerning accidental contact with baits, call 1-888-461-0223.