CDC Issues Health Advisory on Rising Rabies Exposures Across the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory due to a nationwide increase in human exposures to rabid or potentially rabid animals. Rabies-related inquiries saw a 17% surge from July to August 2026 compared to the previous year, with a 33% increase in rabies vaccine use and a 76% increase in immune globulin use. This rise is linked to multiple exposure incidents, including a North Carolina petting zoo event where three rabid baby goats exposed nearly 300 people, coinciding with increased summer outdoor activities. Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection that is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is entirely preventable with prompt post-exposure treatment.