A recent death of a raccoon in Amityville, NY has confirmed the sixth case of locally acquired terrestrial rabies in Suffolk County this year, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services.
This is a significant increase from the last time a local rabid raccoon was reported in 2009. Officials warn that warmer weather may lead to more interaction between wildlife and pets, emphasizing the importance of keeping pets close and ensuring they are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through infected mammal saliva or nervous tissue. Symptoms include irritability, headache, fever, itching at the site of exposure, paralysis, spasms of the throat muscles, convulsions, delirium, and death if left untreated. People can get rabies from bites or contact with infected material in their eyes, nose, mouth, or a wound.
Residents should avoid approaching or having contact with stray or wild animals. If you see an animal acting strangely, alert local authorities immediately. Keeping pet rabies vaccinations current is also essential for protection against the disease.
If you live in affected areas and encounter a dead raccoon, report it to the relevant authorities. The Suffolk County Department of Health Services advises residents to take precautions against rabies, including reporting animal bites or contact with wild animals.
Source: https://patch.com/new-york/lindenhurst/6th-rabid-raccoon-found-suffolk-county-health-dept