CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Health officials are warning about a disease many Americans rarely think about: rabies. Recent outbreaks across several states have doctors urging pet owners and families to take simple steps that could save lives.

In the past 12 months, six people in the U.S. have died from rabies. That's the highest toll in years.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is tracking 15 likely rabies outbreaks across more than 12 states including North Carolina.

Public health officials point to falling pet vaccination rates and increased interactions between people and wild animals as key drivers of the rise.

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is preventable. Quick action matters.

Here's what you can do: Keep pets vaccinated, steer clear of wil

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