The US Department of Agriculture will distribute over 400,000 rabies vaccine baits across East Tennessee from April 2 to 15 as part of a safety program for humans and pets. The disease attacks the nervous system in mammals and is almost always deadly. To combat this, local authorities, including the USDA and Tennessee Department of Health, will use planes, helicopters, and ground vehicles to deliver the baits across counties such as Bradley, Carter, and Sullivan.
The public is urged to leave the baits alone if spotted, as they are safe for pets and cannot spread rabies. The operation aims to keep both humans and pets safe from the disease.
Source: https://www.wvlt.tv/2025/04/01/usda-dropping-400k-rabies-vaccine-baits-across-east-tennessee