More Americans are getting rabies shots this year as exposures rise
Federal health officials are reporting a nationwide rise in the number of people exposed to rabid or possibly rabid animals.
Multiple U.S. states have recently reported a rise in rabies exposures since July, prompting the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a health advisory on September 10. The agency noted a 17% increase in rabies-related inquiries in July and August compared to the same period in 2025. Pharmacy data indicated a 33% increase in the use of rabies vaccines licensed in the United States, while use of rabies immune globulin products rose by 76% from the previous year. As of September 2, the CDC reported that no shortage of either product exists.
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through bites, scratches, or direct contact with an infected animal's saliva, attacking the central nervous system and leading to almost certain death once symptoms appear. Early symptoms may include weakness, fever, headache, and discomfort at the bite site. If treatment is initiated before symptoms develop, nearly every case can be prevented.
The method of treatment depends on whether the person has been vaccinated prior to exposure. Unvaccinated individuals receive one dose of immune globulin at the wound site, followed by four vaccine doses over two weeks. Vaccinated individuals receive two vaccine doses on days 0 and 3, without immune globulin. Those with weakened immune systems may require an additional fifth dose and a blood test to confirm the efficacy of the shots.
Health officials assess the likelihood of rabies based on the animal's species, the local epidemiology, the nature of the exposure, and whether the animal exhibited any unusual behavior or was tested negative. In the United States, over 4,000 animal rabies cases are reported annually, primarily involving bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes.
Rabid bats have been found in all states except Hawaii. Approximately 1.4 million Americans seek medical care after animal contact each year, with around 100,000 receiving rabies shots. Fewer than 10 people die from the disease annually. The CDC advises avoiding wildlife, ensuring pets are up-to-date on their rabies vaccines, and thoroughly washing any bite or scratch with soap and water for 15 minutes.
It is crucial to inform healthcare providers about the type of animal involved and whether it exhibited unusual behavior. If the animal belongs to someone else, obtaining proof of vaccination is recommended.
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