ROME– Rabies vaccine bait drops are underway across Northwest Georgia. Floyd County emergency officials are asking residents to leave the packets alone.

According to the Floyd County Emergency Management Agency, crews are distributing more than 500,000 baits using low-flying airplanes and helicopters. The agency said the work has been ongoing this week and may continue for several days.

This effort aims to vaccinate raccoons and help prevent the spread of rabies in wildlife.

Small packets contain liquid vaccine and an oily, fish-scented coating that attracts raccoons. Each bait also carries a toll-free telephone number for information.

What Residents Should Do

Officials advise leaving baits undisturbed so wildlife can find them. However, if moving a bait is necessary, use gloves or a towel and wash your hands afterward.

USDA guidance also recommends moving baits found where children or pets might encounter them to a wooded area or thicker cover.

If liquid vaccine touches your skin, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. Then call the number on the bait or your county health department for further instructions.

Pet owners should not try to pull a bait from an animal’s mouth because they could be bitten.

The USDA also says the vaccine cannot cause rabies and is safe if eaten by dogs and cats. However, these wildlife baits should not replace a pet’s routine rabies vaccination from a veterinarian.

Part of a Wildlife Vaccination Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services distributes oral rabies vaccines as part of its effort to limit raccoon rabies.

When a raccoon bites into a packet, the vaccine coats its mouth and throat. Animals that receive an adequate dose develop antibodies against rabies.

As more animals develop protection, the program helps create a barrier against the virus spreading.

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

NORTHWEST GEORGIA