Another rabid raccoon found in Jefferson County
PHILADELPHIA, N.Y. (WWTI) – Another rabid animal has tested positive for rabies in Jefferson County.
According the Jefferson County Department of Public Health, a rabid raccoon was found in the town of Philadelphia. The statement on Thursday said this is the 12th different animal to test positive for the disease this year.
Rabid raccoon becomes 11th animal to test positive in Jefferson County
There were known pet or human exposures according to the statement.
A total of seven raccoons, two cats, two dogs and a bat have tested positive for rabies in the county in 2024.
The disease can be fatal and it attacks the brain and spinal cord. It can take several weeks to 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.
Multiple rabies cases have been identified across the county. Therefore, any unknown animal could have rabies. Avoid contact with unknown animals, including possible stray pets, as they may not have been vaccinated against rabies.
Here are some tips on how to deal with the disease:
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.
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.
