The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have announced a recall of a rabies vaccine shipment after discovering that some vials may have contained only sterile water instead of the vaccine. The affected product, IMRAB 3TF, was manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health and distributed to veterinarians, including those in Rhode Island, between September 29, 2025, and January 8, 2026. The specific lot being recalled is Serial 18665 with an expiration date of March 12, 2027. Other products from Boehringer Ingelheim or other manufacturers are not part of this recall.
According to state law in Rhode Island, dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies. Pets that received the recalled vaccine are not considered currently vaccinated for rabies management or dog licensing purposes. Owners whose pets were given this product should ensure their animals are revaccinated. RIDOH and DEM stated there are no health concerns for pets that received sterile water or for those who receive another dose of the rabies vaccine.
Veterinarians who obtained the affected shipment have been notified by the manufacturer and instructed to reach out to pet owners whose animals were given the recalled product. Animal control officers and municipal clerks across Rhode Island are also being informed so they can address issues related to rabies management and dog licensing.
“As an added precaution, the owners of pets that were vaccinated against rabies after September 29, 2025 should review their rabies vaccine certificates and contact their veterinarian if this product was administered,” officials said in a statement. “Animal owners with questions should contact their veterinarians.”
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted primarily through saliva from infected animals via bites or scratches. It is fatal if untreated before symptoms appear. Animals most commonly found with rabies include bats, skunks, raccoons, and foxes. Unvaccinated pets can transmit the virus to humans if infected.
State agencies such as the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment play a role in supporting local agriculture through various programs like grant opportunities for farms and seafood development, as well as handling inspections and certifications for plant exporters (official website). These efforts help sustain agricultural viability within Rhode Island.
For more information about rabies prevention and management in Rhode Island, visit https://health.ri.gov/rabies
