CDC alert · United States

Rabies Exposures 2026

United States · CDC Health Alert Network
Sources: CDC Health Alert Network · CDC Rabies

About Rabies

Cause
Rabies virus, spread in the saliva of infected mammals
How it spreads
Bites, and sometimes scratches or saliva in a wound; bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes, stray dogs and cats
If untreated
Almost always fatal once symptoms begin
Prevention
Post-exposure shots, given promptly, are nearly 100% effective

Sources: CDC Rabies · CDC HAN notice