The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Wildlife Services will conduct an oral rabies vaccine (ORV) bait distribution in Walker County from October 21 through October 28. The effort is part of a regional campaign to reduce the spread of rabies among wildlife.
This fall’s bait drop follows an earlier distribution that took place in April, making up for last year’s postponed effort. The 2023 fall campaign was delayed due to widespread storm damage and recovery operations in neighboring states caused by Hurricane Helene.
The vaccine baits are designed to immunize wild animals, particularly raccoons, against rabies. While the baits are not harmful to pets, residents are advised to avoid touching them. If baits are found in areas frequented by children, officials recommend using gloves or a towel to move them to nearby wooded or brushy areas where they are more likely to be consumed by wildlife…