Who is the primary regulatory body for rabies control?

The primary regulatory body for rabies control is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC plays a central role in public health and disease prevention, including the management of rabies. It conducts research, provides guidance on rabies prevention and control strategies, and works to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the risks associated with rabies. The CDC collaborates with various stakeholders, including state and local health departments, to develop consistent policies and implement vaccination programs aimed at controlling rabies outbreaks.

While the U.S. Department of Agriculture is involved in managing animal health and welfare, including disease monitoring in livestock, its role is not as direct in human public health initiatives related to rabies. The Department of Public Health typically addresses a wider range of health issues and would rely on CDC guidelines for specific diseases like rabies. Similarly, the State Veterinary Board oversees the practice of veterinary medicine and animal health within the state, but it does not primarily regulate public health aspects like rabies control.