What role does the CDC play regarding rabies?

The role of the CDC regarding rabies primarily focuses on compiling and publishing surveillance data. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is responsible for monitoring rabies cases across the United States, which includes tracking the incidence of rabies in humans and domestic animals, as well as assessing trends over time. By compiling this data, the CDC provides essential information that helps public health officials and policymakers understand the scope of the rabies problem and develop strategies for its control and prevention.

Surveillance data collected and published by the CDC is critical for informing health education initiatives, guiding vaccination recommendations, and prioritizing research funding. It also aids local health departments and public health organizations in tailoring their rabies prevention efforts based on observed trends and emerging issues.

While funding animal vaccination programs and implementing wildlife vaccination efforts can happen at various levels of government and through partnerships with other organizations, these activities are not the primary role of the CDC. Similarly, while the CDC offers guidance and support to local health departments, direct oversight of those departments is outside its scope.