AMITYVILLE, N.Y. (1010 WINS) — A second racoon has tested positive for rabies in Suffolk County for the second time this year, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services reported.
The dead raccoon tested positive for rabies after it was found in Amityville on March 4. The confirmation was received from the Wadsworth Center at the New York State Department of Health late afternoon on March 7.
There was no known human or animal contact with the raccoon, health officials said.
This is the second case of locally acquired terrestrial rabies this year. The first case was found on Jan. 28, in North Amityville. Suffolk County had not reported a rabid raccoon since 2009.
Dr. Gregson Pigott, commissioner of the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, said in a statement: "We are very concerned that rabies is spreading along our western border, and we ask for the public’s help: First, ensure that your pets are vaccinated for rabies. Next, take appropriate precautions when you are out and among wild animals. Finally, if you live in the towns of Babylon, Huntington, Islip or Smithtown and encounter a dead raccoon, contact us at the Suffolk County Department of Health Services."
According to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, to further protect yourself from possible exposure to rabies:
• Keep dogs, cats, and ferrets on a leash and keep livestock confined in the evening.
• Do not have contact with any animal other than your own.
• Do not feed wildlife or stray animals and discourage them from seeking food near your home.
• Do not touch dead or dying animals. Use a shovel, wear rubber gloves and double-bag the carcass, if you need to move them.
• Do not approach an unknown animal, either wild or domestic, especially if it is acting unusually.
• Keep garbage cans tightly covered and avoid storing any food outside.
• Children should be advised to tell an adult immediately if they were bitten or scratched by any animal.
At this time, no one, including trappers and nuisance wildlife rehabilitators, should transport and relocate any wild animals in order to prevent the possible spread of the rabies virus.
The public is asked to report sightings of abnormally acting raccoons to the Suffolk County Police Department by calling (631) 852-COPS or the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at 631-444-0250.