There is a vet in Indianapolis, IN who is issuing rabies certificates
for ferrets with an expiration date of 3 years from the date of
administration of the vaccine.  The IMRAB 3 vaccination is what is being
used.  It is clearly stated on the Center for Disease Control website
that ferrets need to be vaccinated for rabies on an annual basis.  This
was also listed on the 06/25/04 weekly issue of the "Morbidity and
Mortality Weekly Report" published by the CDC.
 
I spoke with the vet tech at the vet's office, as the vet is "too busy to
return a phone call of such nature".  She said that IMRAB 3 is a 3 year
vaccination for ferrets.  I argued with her that yes, it is a 3 year
vaccination, but it is to be administered annually for ferrets.  There
is no scientific proof that it "lasts" 3 years in ferrets.  She said that
it does last 3 years in ferrets, and that is what they us.  I mentioned
to her that the website of the CDC makes note that ferrets being
administered IMRAB 3 need to be vaccinated on an annual basis in each
state.  She said that they don't read the CDC website.  I also noted that
I don't either, but when I take in a ferret that someone gave to me with
the rabies paperwork and I notice this, I am going to question the
practice.  Needless to say, she was tongue tied.
 
If there are any lawyers "in da house", could this be a potential legal
issue if the ferret were to scratch or bite someone and they reported it
to someone in the state?  I know it might be on a state by state basis,
but I think it would pose a problem.
 
I am probably out of line contacting the vet, but this really irks me.
Any thoughts on this?  And no flames, please.  I am trying to get to the
bottom of a matter that could potentially put ferret owners who aren't
educated about the vaccine at risk.
[Posted in FML issue 4649]