Rabid raccoon found in Jefferson County Town of LeRay

WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Jefferson County Public Health Service officials are alerting the public of another positive case of rabies in a raccoon in the Town of LeRay.

The New York State Department of Health Wadsworth laboratory has reported to the JCPHS that a raccoon has tested positive for rabies. The animal was found in the Town of LeRay and was submitted by the United States Department of Agriculture for testing.

One dog, who was up to date on its rabies vaccination, was possibly exposed received a booster dose of rabies vaccine. There were no known human exposures according to public health officials.

A rabid skunk was found in the same town earlier in the month.

Rabies cases have been identified across the county. Any unknown animal could have rabies. The public is urged to avoid contact with unknown animals, including possible stray pets, as they may not have been vaccinated against rabies. All pets, including barn cats, should always be vaccinated against rabies.

The disease can be fatal and attacks both the brain and spinal cord. It can take up to several weeks or several months for rabies symptoms to appear. Early treatment after an exposure can prevent rabies in humans and in pets who are up to date on vaccination. Any mammal can get rabies, but it is most often seen in bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Animals do not have to be aggressive or behave erratically to have rabies. Changes in any animal’s normal behavior can be early signs of rabies.

Here is some advice that can help stem the spread of rabies:

• Teach children to stay away from unfamiliar animals, either wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. Remind them to tell you if they have any unusual contact with an animal.
• Do not leave pet food outside as it attracts wildlife to your home.
• Wash any wound from an animal encounter thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
• Be a responsible pet owner by keeping your pet’s vaccinations current – even strictly indoor pets. Getting your pet vaccinated by your vet or at a clinic (Petco, Tractor Supply and Pet Supplies Plus offer rabies vaccination clinics) can help stop the spread of rabies from wild animals to humans. JCPHS is hosting a rabies vaccination clinic on Thursday, June 20 5–7p.m. at Jefferson County Dog Control. Visit www.jcphs.org for more information.
• Monitor your pet when they are outside. If your pet is involved in an altercation with a wild
  animal, do not get in between them. Do not touch your pet without gloves as rabies is spread through saliva. Cover your pet with a towel and contact your vet as your pet may need a booster shot.

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