Rabies vaccine to be distributed in Wareham Sept. 17
Sep 14, 2018
Plastic bins with rabies vaccine blocks. Photo courtesy: Wareham Department of Natural Resources
The Wareham Department of Natural Resources will be distributing rabies vaccine blocks on Monday, Sept. 17 in conjunction with the Cape Cod Rabies Task Force and U.S. Department of Agriculture in order to reduce the risk of infection in Wareham’s wildlife population. Wareham has already had 3 confirmed cases of the potentially fatal disease this year.
According to officials, the baited vaccine block that will be distributed in Wareham is a small, 2 inch brown square which reads "rabies vaccine" in black lettering. The bait is a fish meal based polymer designed to attract raccoons and other animals.
Officials noted that while the bait is not harmful to pets or humans it may cause an upset stomach if ingested. Anyone who finds a bait block should use a glove or towel to pick it up and throw it in the woods where small children and pets will not find it.
Pet owners are encouraged to report all instances bait exposures to the Wareham Department of Natural Resources immediately at 508-291-3100 ext. 3113.
The baiting will occur between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on various roads throughout the town on Monday, Sept. 17. Vehicles from the Department of Natural Resources and cars with a white ‘rabies control team’ magnet will be driving along the side of the road with hazards flashing.
Officials encourage drivers to slow down when approaching and passing these vehicles.
“We would also like to take this time to remind residents that rabies is present in wildlife in all areas of Massachusetts,” officials said. “Do not handle wildlife.”
Any resident who suspects that a wild animal is “acting in a sickly or aggressive fashion” is encouraged to call the Wareham Department of Natural Resources at 508-291-3100 ext. 3180 or the Wareham Police Department at 508-295-1212. Pet owners are advised to check their pet’s vaccination records and ensure that they are up to date.
A reverse 911 call for the baiting will go out Sunday night on Sept. 16. The digital billboard on Route 28 in East Wareham will also be utilized to raise awareness.
To learn more, visit www.wareham.ma.us/natural-resources or call 508-291-3100 extension 3180
