CDC Issues Health Advisory on Increased Rabies Exposures and PEP Errors

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an advisory due to a nationwide increase in reported human exposures to rabid or possibly rabid animals, as well as errors in administering rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). The CDC noted a 17% rise in rabies-related inquiries from July to August 2026 compared to the previous year, including mass exposure events. Weekly pharmacy data as of September 2, 2026, also showed a significant increase in the utilization of rabies vaccines and immunoglobulins. The advisory provides recommendations for clinicians and healthcare facilities on rabies treatment and appropriate PEP assessment and administration.