Rabies control program expanded along Maine border

New Brunswick is expanding its rabies control program along the U.S. border in response to an increasing number of rabies cases in neighbouring Maine.

Health Minister Mike Murphy said Tuesday the province will more than double funding for the program this year to $560,000.

Starting Monday, the province's oral rabies vaccination program will be expanded along the border area stretching from St. Stephen to Woodstock.

Previously, the initiative was carried out only along the border from St. Stephen to McAdam.

The program involves distributing bait containing a rabies vaccine.

The bait will be distributed by foot and, in rural areas, by low-flying planes.