CDC Reports 17 Percent Increase in Rabies-related Inquiries

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a 17 percent increase in rabies-related inquiries in recent months. The agency attributed the rise to heightened public awareness following several high-profile animal rabies cases and expanded educational campaigns. CDC officials urged pet owners to ensure their animals are vaccinated and to avoid contact with wild animals, particularly bats, raccoons, and foxes, which are common carriers of the virus.