USDA Wildlife Services, in cooperation with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention, has distributed nearly 599,000 oral rabies vaccine (ORV) baits across Aroostook County from Aug. 12 through Aug. 24. The fall distribution follows a spring campaign and responds to continued detections of rabid raccoons in the county. The program is intended to reduce the spread of raccoon rabies virus, limiting potential exposure risks for people, pets, and livestock. Wildlife Services crews distributed baits by aircraft in rural areas and by vehicle in more populated locations. The vaccine is contained in fishmeal-coated cubes or sachets measuring approximately one to two inches. The two bait types are the only formulations being used in the Maine distribution. Photo of bait types: The bottom two bait types in the photo are a fishmeal-coated sachet(bottom) and cube(middle) and are the only two used in this ORV bait drop in Maine. Photo credit: maine.gov Veterinarians should reinforce that people and animals cannot contract rabies from contact with the bait itself. However, clients should avoid handling, moving or intentionally collecting baits. If skin contact occurs, the affected area should be washed with soap and warm water. Questions about a person or pet that has handled or ingested a bait can be directed to the Maine CDC’s 24-hour consultation line at 800-821-5821. ORV baits have been studied for safety in multiple animal species, including domestic dogs and cats. Dogs that consume numerous baits may experience gastrointestinal upset, but no long-term health effects are known. The campaign is part of USDA Wildlife Services’ ongoing effort, begun in northern Maine in 2003, to contain raccoon rabies. The agency also works with partners in New Brunswick and Quebec. More broadly, the USDA program supports a rabies-control barrier along the Appalachian region from the Canadian border to Alabama. Maine has reported 28 rabies-positive animals in 12 counties in 2026 as of Aug. 10, including raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats and one goat. Veterinary professionals should continue to emphasize current rabies vaccination for pets and livestock, prompt evaluation following bites or scratches, and thorough wound washing with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes. For more information, visit the official website of the State of Maine.
