Officials in Long Island have issued a health alert following the discovery of a rabid raccoon at the border between Nassau and Suffolk counties.
This latest case was reported when a dead raccoon was found in North Amityville on May 6, as indicated by the county’s Department of Health.
Dr. Gregson Piggott mentioned, “We’re boosting our raccoon surveillance efforts, particularly in West Suffolk County, and we plan to initiate an oral rabies vaccination campaign later this year.” He added, “Residents should stay alert and inform us about any sick or deceased raccoons.”
Nassau County has already conducted two weeks of oral bait drops, focusing on areas around Amityville, Massapequa, Farmingdale, and Bethpage. Additionally, some popular trails, like those at Massapequa Park and Bethpage State Park, are also being targeted for these efforts. Bait has even been placed in Nassau, close to the Queens border.
Prior to this recent incident, another rabid raccoon was found in Amityville in April, causing Dr. Piggott to express concerns about the potential spread of rabies.
Residents in Suffolk who come across dead raccoons in towns like Babylon, Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown are urged to contact the county at 631-852-5900.
