Nassau County health officials have declared rabies an imminent public health threat following a resurgence of cases among wild animals, including raccoons and feral cats. Since July of last year, 25 confirmed rabies cases have been reported—marking a concerning return of the virus after it was considered eradicated from the area in 2016.
This declaration allows the Department of Health to take proactive measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Why the Declaration Matters
While no human cases have been reported in Nassau County to date, the rise in rabid animals—particularly in a densely populated region—raises the risk of transmission. Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can be transmitted to humans and pets through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva from an infected animal.
Officials emphasize that prevention is critical, especially before any human transmission occurs.
Rabies Control Measures
The county plans to expand its rabies control program this fall. The program includes the distribution of oral rabies vaccines in bait form to immunize wild raccoon populations. A similar effort is also underway in neighboring Suffolk County, which has reported new rabies cases after 15 years of no documented infections.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Pets
Health experts urge residents to take the following steps to reduce the risk of rabies exposure:
- Avoid contact with wild or stray animals, especially if they appear sick or behave unusually.
- Do not feed wildlife, and eliminate outdoor food sources that may attract them.
- Ensure all pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations, including dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, and livestock.
- Keep pets indoors at night and do not allow them to roam freely outside.
- Supervise young pets that have not yet received their first rabies vaccine.
- Do not touch dead or dying animals. If removal is necessary, use gloves and tools, double-bag the remains, and dispose of them properly.
- Seek immediate medical care if you or your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal.
Suspected exposures or animal bites should be reported to the Nassau County Department of Health at 516-227-9663.
Residents can also report sick, dead, or strangely behaving animals for testing by emailing: rabies@nassaucountyny.gov
Rabies in the U.S.
Rabies is rare in humans in the United States due to widespread animal vaccination and prompt post-exposure treatment. According to the CDC, fewer than 10 people die from rabies each year in the U.S. However, once symptoms appear, the disease is almost always fatal.
Prompt medical attention, including rabies vaccination and immunoglobulin treatment, is highly effective if administered soon after exposure.
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