Current Efforts to Reduce Rabies in U.S. Racoon Populations

It used to be dogs that were among the biggest threat of spreading around the Rabies virus, but with the influx of modern innovation and awareness, canines are simply not affected as much here in the United States. As a result of these changes, scientists are now suggesting that the Rabies virus poses the most risk of spreading in the raccoon population. For this reason, they have come up with a fantastic way to reduce Rabies outbreaks in the U.S.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal 317-875-3099
Indianapolis Raccoon Removal 317-875-3099

Rabies Vaccines for Raccoons

According to the field coordinator for the National Rabies Management Program, Jordona Kirby, “Annual statistics indicate that raccoons are one of the number one species in which we see rabies cases every year.” Since a widely-accepted public and animal health initiative in the 70’s, the U.S. government has been dispersing oral rabies vaccines through the National Rabies Management Program. In fact, this program has made history because it is the biggest organized effort to abate a zoonotic disease in wildlife ever in the United States.

Although this program is said to cost around $28 million annually to keep it running, it is predicted to save tax payers up to $60 million since Rabies control will reduce needs like public health investigations, rabies testing, and availability to post-exposure vaccines for people. Currently, a fish meal polymer block that looks similar to a ketchup packet is the key to broad-range Rabies vaccination among raccoons. These fishy oral rabies vaccines are scientifically developed to attract raccoon’s appetites; and when they bite into them, the packet splits open and releases the liquid vaccine in their mouths.

Rabies Vaccines for People and Pets      

All cases of rabies in humans were fatal until the vaccine was invented in the early 1900’s.  Now, if a person is ever infected with Rabies, they can go to the emergency room and receive effective treatment to stop the virus from multiplying. Rabies vaccinations for children and adults are inexpensive and can be outsourced at any local clinic or medical office. Families can also contact passport health clinics and speak with health travel medical specialists about receiving vaccinations for the rabies virus. Even after exposure, a rabies vaccination can be given to a human for added assurance and protection.

The Indiana Administrative Code statute states that all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated at 4 months of age, and then re-vaccinated annually, and then re-vaccinated according to manufacturer’s instructions. Pet vaccinations must be administered by a licensed and accredited veterinarian.

How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

To best avoid potential exposure to the rabies virus, it is important to avoid contact with wild animals. This includes injured or orphaned ones. If you have raccoons on your property, contact a local animal control service to have them safely and humanely removed.

Safe Raccoon Removal and Control in Indianapolis

Call Budget Animal Removal at 317-875-3099 for fast and affordable removal and control for raccoons in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our DNR licensed and insured wildlife rescue and control specialists offer nuisance wildlife abatement services, cleanup and minor restorations for animal damages, 24 hour emergency service, free estimates, and much more! Get started by requesting a free estimate or advice, today.

Budget Animal Removal