News Flash

For over 20 years, the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) has partnered with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services (USDA) to distribute oral rabies vaccine for raccoons throughout Allegheny County. This year, staff from both organizations will be distributing vaccine-containing baits from July 31 to September 1 across Allegheny County. 

The baits will be delivered both by hand from ground vehicles and by aircraft, including helicopter and fixed wing airplanes. 

What if I find rabies baits?

Baits should be left alone – but intact baits can be moved if they are found where children and pets play. Damaged baits should be bagged and disposed in the trash.

• Wear gloves or use a plastic bag when picking up the baits. 

• Toss intact baits into a fencerow, woodlot, ditch, or other raccoon habitat areas. 

• Wash your hands after any skin contact with a bait. 

 What if my pet eats a bait? 

• A few baits are not harmful, although eating a lot may cause vomiting or diarrhea.

• Do not risk getting bitten by taking a bait away from your pet.

• Confine your pet for a couple of days and check the area for more baits.

• If your pet eats a bait, avoid your pet’s saliva for 24 hours, and wash skin or wounds that may have been licked. 
  
  For information concerning accidental contact with baits, call 1-888-461-0223.