Rabies
Rabies is a virus that can infect all mammals, and it is most frequently transmitted to humans through a bite from a rabid animal. Foxes, especially in the North Slope and Southwest regions, are the most common transmitters of rabies in Alaska. Rabies is a serious disease that can cause death within days of symptoms, so be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect exposure.
Resources for the General Public
State of Alaska
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
World Health Organization (WHO)
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
Resources for Healthcare Providers
State of Alaska: Alaska Rabies Control Manual (Updated August 2024)
- Alaska Rabies Prevention and Control Manual with Appendices D, F, G, and
- Appendix A: Section of Epidemiology Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Treatment Sheet
Note: This treatment sheet is provided as a convenience; the Section of Epidemiology discontinued supplying rabies PEP in 2014. Providers must obtain biologics from the manufacturers or distributors. For information about the 2014 change, click here.
- Appendix B: 2007 Epidemiology Bulletin on Lay Vaccinator Program
- Appendix C: Alaska State Virology Laboratory (ASVL), Rabies specimen submission information
Specimens will be accepted from physicians and other healthcare providers, veterinarians, environmental health officers, wildlife agents, law officers, or other individuals designated by the Alaska Division of Public Health. Rabies laboratory examinations will be limited to warm-blood animals for which there is a clear or possible history of human exposure, or animals deemed necessary by public health or wildlife authorities. Please contact the Section of Epidemiology for authorization prior to submitting specimens for rabies testing. Call 907-269-8000, or after hours call 800-478-0084.
Note: for wildlife samples, state regulations designate that game species killed in "defense of life or property" (DLP) must be reported to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G). This requirement is separate from the form needed to request rabies testing at ASVL.
- Appendix E: NASPHV Compendium on Rabies Prevention and Control 2016
- April 26, 2023 Bulletin: Update on Bat Rabies in Alaska