Rabies vaccination and prevention measures remain critical to our animal populations. Wild animals, even with population control measures in place, still spread the disease. Note the rabies variant distribution map among mesocarnivores and consider sharing this information with animal owners in the course of animal health discussions.
Source: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, April 1, 2016, Pages 777-788.
During 2014, 50 states and Puerto Rico reported 6,033 rabid animals and 1 human case of rabies to the CDC, representing a 2.83% increase from the 5,865 rabid animals and 3 human cases of rabies reported in 2013. Since 1980, wildlife has accounted for > 90% of all rabid animals reported in the United States. The five species considered primary reservoirs include raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes, and mongooses (in Puerto Rico).