Oral rabies vaccine (ORV) baits for wildlife are currently being distributed throughout southern Plymouth County and Mainland Barnstable County.Once that has been completed, operations will be shifted to the Upper-, Mid-, and Lower-Cape in efforts to prevent the spread of terrestrial rabies across the Cape once again. On the map, the orange area was treated by two black and red USDA helicopters. The exact finish date is weather dependent. Due to areas of high human density, the portion noted in yellow will be treated by vehicles and foot beginning last week. Bait stations in selected areas will be filled as well.The ground-based distribution is expected to last between 1 and 2 weeks. During this time frame, you will see two low-flying helicopters, as well as several town, county, and federal vehicles, distributing baits. We ask that you keep your dogs on leash, obeying your town’s leash laws. While the baits are generally safe for your pets, the fishmeal coating may cause your pet to experience an upset stomach. Additionally, every bait that a dog consumes is one that is considered a lost dose that could have gone to an unvaccinated raccoon. This expanded campaign is in response to the first case of terrestrial rabies on the Cape in over 8 years.In May, a raccoon from Hyannis tested positive for the virus. Follow Cape Cod & Southeast Massachusetts Rabies Task Force on social media for updates!
