Expect low-flying planes in New York this week

You may have already seen some low-flying planes over New York, and their numbers will increase this week.

Erie County Health Department officials have announced the dates they will drop rabies vaccine pellets throughout the county.

READ MORE: NEW YORK STATE HAS BILLIONS IN UNCLAIMED FUNDS. FIND OUT IF SOME OF IT IS YOURS.

From August 12 to 17, the planes will drop the bait in Erie County, affecting parts of western Orleans, Genesee and Wyoming counties, as well as parts of northern Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties.

Beginning August 17, helicopters will also begin dropping bait over central and northwestern Erie County and some villages. This operation will continue through August 21.

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ECDOH members will hand-lay bait in more populated areas on August 17.

All of these dates are weather dependent and may be extended beyond the final dates due to weather conditions.

This is what the bait looks like.

Health department officials warn people not to touch these tablets if they fall. If you come into contact with one of these packets, you can call the NYSDOH Rabies Information Hotline (888) 574-6656 with any questions or concerns.

READ MORE: NEW YORK STATE HAS BILLIONS IN UNCLAIMED FUNDS.

Most packets are eaten by wildlife within four days; almost all baits are gone within a week. If packets are not found and eaten, they dissolve without causing harm and the released vaccine is inactivated.

If you must transport a vaccine packet, wear gloves or use a plastic bag or paper towel to pick it up. Throw damaged baits in the trash; throw intact baits in a wooded area for wildlife to eat.

For more information about the rabies vaccination bait program, click HERE.