ATLANTA — The Atlanta-based Center for Disease Control and Prevention issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) health advisory to inform clinicians, health departments, and the public about increases in recent animal rabies activity and associated human exposures.

CDC officials said, “Rabies is preventable when people who have been exposed receive appropriate administration of the rabies vaccine before symptoms begin.”

Across metro Atlanta, multiple rabies cases have been reported in Lawrenceville, a dead bat found last month in the metro area, as well as in a dead cat found in May. Officials say a rabies case was also reported in a traveling petting zoo in North Carolina over the summer.

“During the summer of 2026, reports of animal exposures and rabies post-exposure vaccinations have increased across the country,” CDC officials said. “The CDC urges clinicians to conduct careful, evidence-based rabies risk assessments and follow current ACIP recommendations when post-exposure vaccination or treatment is indicated.”

The CDC directs public health departments and healthcare providers to consult the official CDC HAN advisory for detailed clinical guidance, treatment recommendations, and preventive measures.

Officials recommend eliminating outdoor feeding stations and limiting access to garbage cans.

Residents are being urged by CDC officials to make sure their pets are up to date on vaccinations and to take steps to reduce the risk of exposure.

“Avoiding contact with sick-acting mammals and wildlife and seeking prompt medical care after potential bites or scratches can help prevent rabies,” CDC officials said.

Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by an animal is urged to seek medical attention immediately.

For more information, visit cdc.gov/rabies.