Overview
As a result of the Cape Cod Canal Rabies Bait Barrier being breached in March of 2004, we have had to address new public safety and public health threats.
Rabies advanced quickly across the Cape with the first case of a rabid animal in Yarmouth occurring in September of 2004.
Raccoon Threat
The most significant factor that escalated the potential of human and pet exposures was a cyclical high in the raccoon population. As a result of this new threat, division staff worked, and continues to work, tirelessly.
Even though populations have dramatically decreased, we still respond to reports of sick wildlife, more specifically mammals that may have contracted and ultimately spread rabies.
People & Animals at Risk
Rabies effects only warm blooded animals (mammals). This includes:
- Humans
- Pets
- Livestock
- Wild animals