Low-Flying Helicopters Over Mattapoisett Have a Surprising Purpose

If you spot low-flying helicopters around Mattapoisett next week, don't be alarmed—there's a good reason.

The Cape Cod & Southeast Massachusetts Rabies Task Force (CCSMRTF) is once again dropping ORV rabies vaccines across portions of Barnstable and Plymouth Counties. This year, more Bristol County towns are included, with portions of Mattapoisett added to the treatment zone for the first time.

Residents should know what to expect—and what to do if the vaccines land on their property.

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Why Helicopters Are Flying Over the SouthCoast

Ground distribution began May 5 in several towns, including Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth, Barnstable, Plymouth, Wareham, Carver, Kingston, Middleboro, Rochester, Mattapoisett, Marion, and Lakeville. Beginning May 12, crews will ramp up efforts with aerial drops using a USDA-owned Jet Ranger helicopter.

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Unlike hand placement, aerial drops aren't as precise, meaning vaccine baits could end up in backyards and areas where pets roam.

What To Do If You Find a Bait Packet?

If you come across one, officials say the best option is to leave it alone. The vaccines are not toxic, and neither people nor pets can get rabies from them.

If you do prefer to remove them from your yard, officials say to use gloves and, if possible, throw them into a wooded area where wildlife can find them. You should also wash your hands with soap and water after handling any bait/vaccine packets.

What The Rabies Vaccine Packets Look Like

The packets—coated sachets and fishmeal polymer blocks, as seen in the photo above—can be tempting to pets that find them. Though not harmful, these vaccines are intended for wildlife and can cause an upset stomach in domesticated animals.

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With helicopter drops set to begin May 12, residents in affected areas—and anyone visiting nature preserves or local trails—are encouraged to leave the baits in place when possible to help stop the spread of rabies in Massachusetts.