Wild foxes vaccinated against rabies
The National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) has initiated an anti-rabies vaccination campaign targeting wild foxes. This campaign is scheduled to run from April 29 to May 8, 2026, during which time vaccine baits will be distributed manually across the Republic of Moldova. Authorities are urging the public to observe precautionary measures over the next two weeks, particularly in supervising pets.
According to a press release from ANSA, this campaign marks the initial phase of this year's Rabies Eradication Program, which aims to immunize wild foxes.
The immunization process involves the manual distribution of vaccine baits by ANSA veterinarians. This effort is carried out in collaboration with hunting fund managers, representatives from forestry enterprises, and members of the Hunters and Fishermen's Society, as specified by the institution.
The authorities have issued several recommendations for citizens regarding the ongoing campaign. They advise that, "for two weeks after the distribution of the baits, strict supervision of dogs and cats is recommended." Additionally, pet access to vaccination areas should be restricted to prevent them from consuming baits intended for foxes.
According to ANSA, the vaccine is designed exclusively for wildlife but poses no harm to pets if consumed accidentally.
If citizens come across intact baits in areas without children or pets, they should leave them in place. However, if a bait is found near children or domestic animals, it should be picked up with gloves, placed in a plastic bag, and moved to a wooded area.
If you come across bait with opened, broken, or damaged packaging, please use gloves to handle it. Place the bait in a plastic bag and notify the veterinarian to pick it up.
Representatives from ANSA emphasize that the actions taken as part of the Rabies Eradication Program are co-financed by the European Union. The goal of this initiative is to progressively reduce rabies in the Republic of Moldova until the country can be recognized as free from this disease.
The institution notes that similar anti-rabies vaccination campaigns for foxes were conducted in previous years, including in 2024 and 2025, as part of the same multi-annual program.
