Rabies case reported on Long Island: ‘Avoid contact with wild animals’

CEDARHURST, N.Y. (PIX11) – A feral cat tested positive for rabies in Cedarhurst on Long Island, the New York State Department of Health announced Thursday.

The rabies case is the first since 2016, when a raccoon tested positive.

“We urge all residents to avoid contact with feral and wild animals and to ensure their pets are up to date with their rabies vaccinations,” said Nassau Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman. “The detection of rabies in our county after several years of no reported cases is a stark reminder of the ongoing risk, and it’s crucial that we take proactive measures to protect our community.”

Rabies is caused by a virus that invades the central nervous system and is usually fatal in animals and humans if left untreated. It’s most commonly spread through a bite from an infected animal. Most U.S. infections in recent years have been traced to bat encounters.

Rabies infections can cause a range of symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, confusion, paralysis, excessive salivation, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, and a fear of water.

Death can occur only a couple of weeks after symptoms begin. However, it can be prevented through five shots given within two weeks of exposure.

NY Health Department recommends:

• Not feeding or touching wild animals, including stray cats and dogs.
• Ensuring pets, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, and livestock, are up to date on rabies vaccinations.
• Keeping family pets indoors at night. Don’t leave them outside unattended or let them roam free.
• Do not feed unknown animals.
• Advise your family against approaching any unknown animal, especially those acting unusually.
• If a wild animal is on your property, let it wander away and bring children and pets indoors.
• Do not touch a dying or dead animal.

To prevent the possible spread of rabies, the Nassau County Department of Health partnered with the Town of Hempstead to offer free vaccinations. The vaccination clinic will be held on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, officials said.

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press .

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here .

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