Those packets being dropped on the Cape from helicopters? They’re rabies vaccines for raccoons.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is currently dropping the rabies vaccine from helicopters throughout New England, in an annual effort to prevent the spread of raccoon rabies.  

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. But to help limit the potential for exposure to infected wild animals, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service distributes oral rabies vaccine bait annually to wildlife in the Eastern United States.  

The ORV baits are packaged in two-inch plastic sachets and coated with a fishmeal attractant, APHIS said in a release. In rural areas the bait is distributed by helicopter, while in more populated areas it’s distributed by vehicle. 

Massachusetts can expect to see OVR baits flying from helicopters soon, as the Cape Cod project will begin in mid-September until mid-October, distributing 75,000 ORV baits by helicopter, bait station, and vehicle across parts of peninsular and mainland Massachusetts. 

New England has already seen its share of ORV baits dropped this month. On Aug. 1, the Barre, Vermont project began, which encompasses parts of northern New Hampshire, northeastern New York, and northern Vermont, distributing almost 460,000 baits by airplanes and vehicles.

The Houlton, Maine project also began Aug. 12 and will continue until Aug. 24, covering parts of northern Maine and distributing approximately 598,000 ORV baits by airplane and vehicle.

APHIS said humans and animals cannot get rabies from touching the bait. But if humans come across the bait, APHIS said to leave it undisturbed, and, if touched, immediately wash the contact area with warm soap and water. 

The vaccines are safe for many animals, APHIS said, including domestic dogs and cats. Dogs that consume too many baits may experience an upset stomach, but there are no long-term health risks.

For additional information concerning the ORV program visit the APHIS website or call 1-866-487-3297.