Home / Health / Harford County Fights Rabies with Bait Drop
Harford County Fights Rabies with Bait Drop
2 Sep
Summary
- Over 15,000 vaccine baits distributed across Harford County.
- Vaccine is safe for pets and not harmful to humans.
- Program targets raccoons to prevent rabies spread.
An initiative to combat rabies in Harford County has begun with the widespread distribution of oral vaccine baits. The pilot Oral Rabies Vaccination Program (ORV) involves placing over 15,000 bait containers throughout the county, specifically targeting raccoons.
The vaccine, known as Raboral V-RG, is a live virus but is considered safe for animals and humans. It has a proven track record of success in controlling rabies in raccoon populations in other regions since 1998.
Bait containers are designed to attract animals, particularly raccoons, which must bite into them to receive the vaccine. Ground teams will distribute these fishmeal and polymer-based baits in raccoon habitats across parks and neighborhoods.
Health officials emphasize that while the vaccine poses low risk, individuals under 18, pregnant, immunocompromised, or with chronic skin conditions should avoid direct contact with the bait. The program represents a significant step in protecting community health by preventing rabies spread.
