Oral Rabies Vaccine Distribution to Begin in Baldwin County

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) announced that a new round of oral rabies vaccine (ORV) distribution will take place in Baldwin County beginning January 26 and continuing through February 2. The effort, conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Wildlife Services program (USDA‑WS), will involve the placement of approximately 2,520 vaccine baits across Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and surrounding communities.

The initiative is part of a long‑running, multi‑agency strategy to reduce raccoon‑variant rabies in the region and lower the risk of human and animal exposures. Rabies remains one of the most serious zoonotic diseases in the United States, and controlling it in wildlife is considered essential to protecting public health.

How the Vaccine Baits Work

The ORV baits used in urban and suburban areas are small square blocks made of fishmeal and fish oil-ingredients designed to attract raccoons. Inside each block is a sealed plastic packet containing the vaccine. The baits are clearly marked and include a toll‑free number (1‑877‑722‑6725) for anyone who encounters one and needs assistance or information.

While pets or other animals may occasionally come into contact with the baits, ADPH emphasizes that the vaccine cannot cause rabies. Mild digestive upset is possible but uncommon, and serious reactions are considered rare.

What Residents Should Do if They Find a Bait

Officials advise residents to leave baits where they are whenever possible so wildlife can locate them. If a bait is intact but lying in an exposed or heavily trafficked area, it may be moved-using gloves-into nearby woods or brush.

If a packet is found outside the bait block:

• Handle it with gloves

• Place it where a raccoon is likely to find it or dispose of it in household trash

• Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes, or mucous membranes

In the event of accidental exposure, washing hands with warm water and soap is recommended. More serious reactions are rare, but the phone number printed on the packet connects directly to the office of Dr. Dee W. Jones, Alabama's State Public Health Veterinarian.

Public Health Officials Emphasize Safety and Long‑Term Benefits

Dr. Jones acknowledged that residents may be concerned when encountering a bait in an unexpected location, but he urged the public to consider the broader goal.

He noted that the ORV program has a long track record of safety, supported by years of data from incidental exposures. "The big picture," he said, "is reducing the risk of rabies exposures in Alabama by vaccinating raccoons." He added that the program benefits not only public health but also animal welfare and wildlife conservation.

A Collaborative State and Federal Effort

The ORV distribution is part of a coordinated effort involving the USDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ADPH, and other partner agencies. Together, these organizations work to monitor rabies cases, maintain vaccination zones, and prevent the spread of the disease into new areas.

Residents seeking more information about the federal ORV program can contact the USDA at 1‑866‑487‑3297. For questions about rabies exposures-whether involving animals or humans-ADPH can be reached at 334‑206‑5969. Additional resources are available on the USDA's rabies program website.