Vermont’s second wildlife rabies-vaccine bait distribution of 2026 begins Aug. 1, with approximately 915,700 oral vaccine baits planned across selected areas of 10 counties.
The distribution is not statewide. It covers Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans and Washington counties.
How the bait will be distributed
Aircraft will distribute baits in some areas: airplanes in rural areas and helicopters in suburban areas. Workers will also place baits by hand in residential areas.
The distribution is expected to run over the next month, though the timing of aircraft flights and hand placement will vary by town.
Rabies activity
Vermont had reported 36 rabies cases in 2026 as of the report, including 20 cases in the preceding three months. The state reported 66 rabid animals in both 2024 and 2025.
What residents should do
Residents who encounter a bait should leave it where it is. State guidance says to contact the Rabies Hotline if a child or pet eats a bait or brings one home.
The bait distribution is intended to reduce wildlife rabies risk, but it does not replace pet vaccination or precautions after a potential bite exposure.
Sources
- Rabies Vaccine Bait Drop Factsheet, July 2026, Vermont Department of Health
- Round 2 of rabies vaccine bait drop begins Saturday, VTDigger / Waterbury Roundabout