Starting October 9, 2023, and running through October 13, helicopters will distribute oral rabies vaccine baits in Asheville, Burnsville, Mars Hill, and Waynesville, as announced by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). Following this, between October 15 and 22, low-flying airplanes will cover 17 western counties, including Buncombe, Haywood, and Yancey.

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The baits, designed primarily for raccoons, are fishmeal-scented packets that may attract children and pets. State officials affirm that intact baits pose no harm to humans or animals, but they urge families to be vigilant. If a child or pet encounters a bait, it should be left in place unless it's in a location unlikely to attract raccoons; in such cases, it can be moved to a more suitable spot using gloves.

NCDHHS and the U.S. Department of Agriculture plan to distribute about 600,000 baits in North Carolina this year, with the possibility of up to 4.5 million baits spread across 13 eastern states by 2026. For this operation, Buncombe County will see coverage through all three methods of bait distribution this month.

The baits contain the Raboral V-RG vaccine, packaged in plastic sachets or fishmeal-polymer blocks approximately the size of a matchbox. Residents should be cautious, particularly to prevent curious pets or children from picking them up. If accidental ingestion occurs, families are advised to call their local health department or the hotline listed on the bait, 1-877-722-6725.

While consuming a bait is not harmful to pets, ingesting multiple baits may lead to an upset stomach, but there are no long-term risks. Moreover, neither pets nor humans can contract rabies through contact with the baits, as they contain only a single rabies virus gene.

NCDHHS emphasizes that vaccinated pets remain the most effective protection against rabies. State law mandates rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats, and ferrets by four months of age. Families uncertain about their pet's vaccination status should consult their veterinarians or check for local rabies clinics.

The broader effort aims to curb the spread of raccoon rabies across the Appalachian region, thus keeping it from advancing further into Tennessee. Residents in western North Carolina are reminded to exercise caution during this two-week window, ensuring the safety of both children and pets.