CDC warns of a summer spike in rabies exposures

Key Points:

• The CDC has issued a health advisory warning of a spike in rabies cases among animals this summer, leading to increased human exposures nationwide and urging healthcare providers to be vigilant and administer vaccines and treatments promptly.
• Rabies, a potentially fatal viral disease transmitted primarily through bites or scratches from infected wildlife such as raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, requires immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent symptoms and death.
• A recent outbreak in North Carolina involved three baby goats at a mobile petting zoo testing positive for rabies after being bitten by a skunk, resulting in over 260 people being recommended for rabies vaccination.
• The CDC reported a 17% increase in rabies-related inquiries and noted errors in PEP administration during July and August compared to last year, emphasizing the importance of timely and correct treatment.
• The agency advises the public to avoid contact with wildlife, keep pets vaccinated, wash any animal bites or scratches immediately, and seek medical care if exposed, as rabies exposures typically rise in summer months when outdoor activity increases.