Health officials in Suffolk County, Long Island, have confirmed the area's first rabies case in 15 years, sparking public health concerns. A raccoon found in North Amityville tested positive for the deadly virus, prompting authorities to issue warnings about wild animal interactions and pet vaccinations.
First Rabies Case Since 2010
According to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), the infected raccoon was discovered acting aggressively in a residential neighborhood. Testing at the New York State Department of Health laboratory confirmed the presence of the rabies virus, making this the first non-bat rabies case reported in Suffolk County since 2010.
Dr. Gregory Nolan, a public health veterinarian, warned residents:
"Rabies is a fatal disease once symptoms appear. It is essential that residents avoid contact with wild animals, ensure their pets are vaccinated, and report any unusual animal behavior immediately."
Understanding the Risks of Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It is primarily transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals. If untreated, rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms develop.
Signs of Rabies in Wildlife:
Aggressive or unprovoked attacks
Disorientation or paralysis
Foaming at the mouth
Unusual daytime activity in nocturnal animals (raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes)
While rabies cases in domestic pets and humans are rare in the U.S. due to widespread vaccinations, wildlife remains a major carrier of the disease.
Public Health Response & Prevention Measures
Vaccination Clinics: Suffolk County officials are organizing free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets to prevent the virus from spreading to domestic animals.
Wildlife Surveillance: Animal control teams are monitoring raccoon populations to identify potential outbreaks.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Local health authorities are educating residents about the importance of avoiding contact with stray or wild animals.
Residents are advised to:
Keep pets' rabies vaccinations up to date
Secure trash bins to avoid attracting raccoons and other wildlife
Report stray animals or those exhibiting unusual behavior to authorities
Avoid feeding or handling wild animals
What To Do If You Encounter a Potentially Rabid Animal?
If you see a sick, aggressive, or disoriented animal, follow these steps:
Do not approach the animal – Avoid any direct contact.
Contact local animal control or the health department.
If bitten or scratched, seek immediate medical attention – Post-exposure rabies treatment is highly effective if administered promptly.