image of barnstable county courthouse

Vaccine to Reduce Rabies in Wildlife will be Distributed

PLYMOUTH, KINGSTON, CARVER, MIDDLEBOROR, ROCHESTER, MARION, BOURNE, FALMOUTH, SANDWICH, MASHPEE, BARNSTABLE, YARMOUTH & DENNIS

ORV baits
Two types of oral rabies vaccine will be distributed. The sachet and the bait block contain the same amount of vaccine.

If you find a vaccine/bait package:

  • USE A GLOVE OR A TOWEL TO PICK IT UP. Throw it into the woods where children and pets will not find it.  If no suitable place is available, dispose of the bait in the trash.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the vaccine/bait package.
  • If your pet has eaten or had contact with a bait, please report the contact to: USDA Wildlife Services’ MA/CT/RI Rabies Program Coordinator Brian Bjorklund at (413) 537-9394 (cell). The bait is not harmful to pets.  We use this information to educate those distributing the baits that their baits may not have made it to their target destination.
  • If you or another person has had contact with the liquid vaccine, wash the area thoroughly and call the Department of Public Health at (617) 983-6800.

Rabies is present in wildlife in all areas of Cape Cod.  Do not handle wildlife.  If you should come into contact with wildlife, report it to your local animal control.

Spring 2016 FAQ and poster

Make sure your cats, dogs and other pets have received their rabies vaccinations.

For more information on the Cape Cod Oral Rabies Vaccination Program call (508) 476-2715, stop by your Town Board of Health or visit http://www.mass.gov/dph/rabies or http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/rabies/