The oral rabies vaccines (ORVs) will be dispersed via aircraft over Dade County and its encompassing northwest Georgia regions between April 7th through April 15th.
The ORV baits will be dispersed via Helicopter and fixed wing aircraft, and number over half million in baits holding RABORAL V-RG over almost 3,000 square miles in northwest Georgia. This event by the USDA is to assist in the halting the growth of raccoon rabies in the eastern states.
The ORV number over half a million (containing: RABORAL V-RG) will be distributed via helicopters and fixed wing aircraft, and will distribute. The vaccines baits have extra enticements for the raccoons as they are covered with fish crumbles. The USDA has stated that the baits are labeled with a toll-free number for and have encouraged those who have questions to call, and have assured that the baits are not dangerous to pets.
The USDA has asked for the baits to be left as they are if found to that the wildlife may find them and consume them, essentially self-vaccinating. If on the off-chance a bait is found un-open and not in an opportune area for wildlife, the USDA asks that you throw the bait into a wooded area or brush. You are cautioned to at least put on gloves or a towel if you pick up the baits, and if you do pick up the baits barehanded to immediately wash your hands when finished handling.
Generally the USDA does their annual ORV bait drop for the State of Georgia in October however, due to the substantial damage and rehabilitation endeavors in adjacent states due to Hurricane Helene the annual ORV bait drop was suspended until now.
This year will be unique as the USDA will drop ORV bait in April, and they will again recommence their customary baiting in October, as is tradition.
The bait schedule has Helicopters dropping ORV bait from April 12th through April 15th, and fixed wing airplane drops dropping ORV bait from April 7th through April 12th.
Those with questions and wanting information can call USDA at 1-866-487-3297
PHOTO CREDIT & FLIERS CREDIT: USDA
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