Rabies Cases Rise in Northern Vermont County

Majority of cases concentrated in Orleans County, officials say increased surveillance is a factor

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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About a dozen animals have tested positive for rabies in Vermont since the start of the year, with a majority of cases concentrated in Orleans County. The Vermont Department of Health says while the number is not remarkable, it is part of a subtle upward trend in recent years. Officials are working with the USDA to increase bait drops, vaccination efforts, and public education to reduce the risk of rabies exposure for humans and animals.

Why it matters

Rabies is a serious and potentially fatal viral disease that can be transmitted from infected animals to humans through bites or scratches. The rise in cases in northern Vermont is concerning, as it could lead to increased risk of human and animal exposure if not properly addressed.

The details

The Vermont Department of Health's Natalie Kwit said the concentration of cases in Orleans County could be due to a higher density of rabies vector species, such as raccoon, skunk, and fox, in the area. Animals may also not be consuming the rabies bait regularly dropped along the border. Kwit also noted that increased surveillance plays a role, stating "You're going to find more rabies in animals where you also look for it."

  • Since the start of 2026, about a dozen animals have tested positive for rabies in Vermont.

The players

Natalie Kwit

Vermont Department of Health official who provided information about the rise in rabies cases in the state.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Federal agency that is tracking the rabies cases and working with its Canadian counterpart to reduce rabies exposure risk for humans and animals on both sides of the border.

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What they’re saying

“It's important to note that we've seen an increase, and I'll just say there will be more to come as the year goes on. We don't exactly know why this is happening in this specific area.”

— Natalie Kwit, Vermont Department of Health official (921wvtk.com)

“We don't want any contact between humans and wildlife, especially those animals that are more common to have rabies.”

— Natalie Kwit, Vermont Department of Health official (921wvtk.com)

What’s next

The USDA is tracking the cases and working with its Canadian counterpart to increase bait drops from once to twice a year, conduct more catch-and-release vaccination efforts, and expand public education campaigns to reduce the risk of rabies exposure.

The takeaway

The rise in rabies cases in northern Vermont is a concerning trend that requires a coordinated response from state and federal agencies to protect both human and animal health. Residents should remain vigilant, secure food and trash, avoid contact with wild animals, and ensure their pets and livestock are vaccinated.