Interview: Communicable Disease Nurse Maryann Vargulick talks rabies bait vaccine drops in Lewis County

LOWVILLE- A whole swath of oral rabies vaccine baits were distributed earlier this month throughout Lewis County.

This happens every year and according to public health experts, the goal is to vaccinate wild critters. "This is a specific vaccine geared for raccoons," said Lewis County Public Health Communicable Disease Nurse Maryann Vargulick.

The intent, according to Vargulick, is to bring the rabies vaccine to raccoons by disguising each dose in a scented and fishmeal coated snack, otherwise known as a rabies vaccination bait.

The intent is to have as many raccoons find these baits and consume them, thus vaccinating them for rabies. This is done to reduce the risk to your pets if they ever encounter a raccoon.    

Speaking of which, if your pet happens to find and consume one of or several of these baits, Vargulick says not to worry. "Sometimes they'll get a stomach upset, but they're not toxic for them." 

As previously reported, health officials urge residents to handle these baits (if found) with some sort of glove or protection for your hand.

If you feel you may have handled one of these baits incorrectly or maybe had contact with the vaccine, public health encourages you to reach out with any questions at 315-376-5453.

Be sure to listen to our latest on-air interview with Maryann Vargulick for more details:

Image courtesy via Lewis County Public Health.