CDC Issues Rabies Warning
CDC Warns of Rising Rabies Exposures and Treatment Errors Across Multiple States
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The CDC is warning of a sharp rise in rabies exposures and treatment mistakes across the United States. CDC reported a 17% jump in cases during July and August compared to the same months last year, with health officials now tracking dangerous errors in how rabies preventive shots are given.
The biggest concern: nearly 300 people may have been exposed to rabies after visiting a mobile petting zoo with infected goats in North Carolina. 13abc reports that errors in giving post-exposure shots have led to unnecessary treatments, harmful side effects, and wasted money.
Rabies Exposures Jump 17% in Two Months
From July through August, the CDC tracked a significant increase in people exposed to rabies. CDC data shows the 17% rise compared to the prior year. More alarming: cases involving multiple people exposed at once — called "mass exposures" — are now climbing too.
One incident stands out. Nearly 300 visitors to a mobile petting zoo in North Carolina may have touched infected goats. KCTV5 notes this single event represents one of the largest group exposures in recent memory.
Treatment Errors Put Patients at Risk
Health departments in eight states reported rises in post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) — the rabies prevention shots given after exposure. WIBW explains that errors during these treatments have caused real harm. Patients received wrong doses or incorrect timing of shots.
These mistakes come with costs. Wrong treatments can cause unnecessary side effects and medical expenses. KY3 reports some patients suffered adverse reactions that could have been avoided with correct protocols.
Simple Steps to Lower Your Rabies Risk
The CDC urges people to avoid contact with wild animals entirely. Keep your distance from raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes — even if they seem calm or sick. WMTV15 reminds the public that rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
Pet owners must act now. Keep all dogs, cats, and ferrets vaccinated against rabies. KOLD stresses that updated vaccines are your pet's best defense and protect your family too.
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