Archive · 1 Sep 2025
Rabies Outbreaks on the Rise Across the U.S.
Rabies is a dangerous disease that's spreading more in the US.
It's caused by a virus and can be transmitted when an infected animal bites or scratches someone.
The CDC is tracking outbreaks, with at least six deaths reported in the last year.
Wild animals like skunks and raccoons are often infected.
The disease is fatal once symptoms start, but can be prevented with vaccines.
Every year, many people are checked for possible exposure and some get vaccinated.
Changes in the environment, such as urban growth, may be contributing to the spread.
If you think you've been exposed, get help right away.
At least six deaths from rabies have occurred in the U.S. in the last year.
Outbreaks are occurring in more than a dozen places across the country.
Rabies is present in all states except Hawaii.
Bats are the most common source of rabies infection in humans.
Over a million Americans are checked for rabies exposure each year.
- Who
- The CDC reports on rabies outbreaks.
- What
- Rabies outbreaks are rising across the U.S.
- When
- Over the last 12 months
- Where
- Multiple states across the U.S. including New York, Massachusetts, and parts of Alaska, Arizona, California, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina, Oregon, and Vermont.
- Why
- Shrinking animal habitats and improved surveillance may be contributing to the spread.
- Deaths in Last 12 Months
- At least six
- Common Infected Animals
- Raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes
- People Checked Annually
- Over a million
- Vaccinations Given Annually
- Over 100,000
- Transmission
- Saliva, bites or scratches
- Preventative Measures
- PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) Vaccinations