Rabies Surge in Vermont | Montpelier News

Montpelier News Today | 2 Min New | The Daily News Now! · Aug 9, 2026 · 1m

Rabies is surging in northern Vermont, prompting the USDA to drop a million vaccine baits by plane and ground crews — targeting raccoons whose expanding territory has fueled the outbreak. Once rabies-free, the region now faces a rapid spread as unexposed raccoons carry the virus. The bait, scented to lure raccoons, is being deployed to halt transmission — and if you spot one, leave it alone or move it safely. Even if your dog snatches one, don’t intervene — the vaccine won’t harm pets, but handling could put you at risk. This aggressive campaign aims to contain the outbreak before it…