The US Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services is distributing oral rabies vaccine baits in parts of Southwest Virginia, including Abingdon, Bristol, and surrounding counties. The Virginia Department of Health advises residents to take precautions if they encounter the bait.
If your pet finds an ORV bait, do not try to remove it. Instead, confine them and search for other baits. Eating or handling the bait can be hazardous. If you touch an undamaged bait, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after.
The vaccine is attached to a scent that attracts raccoons, and each packet has a toll-free number (877-722-6725) for reporting bait contacts. Residents are warned not to touch or leave baits alone if they have children.
If you suspect exposure to the vaccine or experience symptoms, call 877-722-6725 or contact USDA Wildlife Services at (540) 230-7067 for assistance.
Source: https://www.wdbj7.com/2025/04/02/oral-rabies-vaccine-being-dropped-southwest-virginia