FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Dee W. Jones, D.V.M., 334-206-5969
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) announces that personnel from the United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services program (USDA-WS) will be distributing approximately 2,520 oral rabies vaccine (ORV) baits by ground vehicles in the Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surrounding communities within the bait zone from January 26 through February 2. This is a continuation of a program designed to reduce raccoon rabies and the associated public health risks associated with rabies exposures.
The ORV baits used for hand baiting the urban/suburban areas are square blocks made of fishmeal and fish oil. The vaccine is contained inside a plastic packet in the hollow center of the block. Each of these fishmeal baits is also imprinted with the toll-free phone number (1-877-722-6725) for people to call for assistance or information if they find or come in contact with a bait.
Animal exposures are common, but the ORV poses no risk of rabies to humans or animals if exposed. Animal reactions may include some mild digestive upset, but reactions are rarely serious. Anyone who finds a bait is advised to leave it alone to allow wildlife to find it. However, if a bait is intact and out in the open, it can be tossed deeper into the woods or brush where a wild animal is more likely to find it.
If a packet is found:
Occasionally, skin reactions occur in humans. It is best to avoid direct contact with the skin, eyes or mucous membranes with the vaccine. If exposure occurs accidentally, then it is recommended that the person wash hands with warm water and soap. Should more serious reactions occur, there is a telephone number on the vaccine packet to call for more information.
Dr. Dee W. Jones, State Public Health Veterinarian, states that the phone number on the vaccine packet rings to his office. He said, “I understand the concern from citizens and owners when an ORV packet is found in an unintended place or when there is an unintended exposure, but I am hopeful that people keep the big picture in mind, and that is actually reducing the risk of rabies exposures in Alabama by vaccinating raccoons.”
He adds, “The vaccine packets have been proven to be very safe by historical data collected from incidental exposures. I believe the ORV program benefits public health, animal welfare and wildlife.”
Implementation of this program in Alabama is a collaborative effort among the USDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the ADPH, and other relevant agencies. For more information about the federal ORV usage in Alabama, please contact the USDA at 1-866-487-3297.
For more information about rabies exposures, animal or human exposures to the ORV please call ADPH at 334-206-5969. Additional information is also available from the USDA website.
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1/22/26
County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.
Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health
Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.