Health officials have confirmed the first cases of rabid raccoons in Amityville since 2009, indicating a possible spread of rabies in the region. Notably, a deceased raccoon tested positive shortly after the first case was detected in January. Health officials are urging residents to vaccinate their pets and report any sightings of dead raccoons. Previous reports had already indicated rising concerns about sick raccoons in the area, suggesting the issue may have been developing before these confirmed cases.
"We are very concerned that rabies is spreading along our western border," Dr. Gregson Pigott, commissioner of the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, said.
"We ask for the public's help," Dr. Pigott added. "First, ensure that your pets are vaccinated for rabies. Next, take appropriate precautions when you are out and among wild animals."
Authorities report that a deceased raccoon found in the town on March 4 had tested positive for rabies, intensifying concerns about a potential outbreak.
Before the cases were announced, the Amityville Record reported two issues of sick raccoons, indicating that concerns of rabies had already been surfacing in the area.
Collection
[
|
...
]