LCPH: Woodchuck tests positive for Rabies in West Turin; one domestic pet exposed

LEWIS COUNTY- The Public Health Office says another wild animal has tested positive for rabies.

This time, it was a woodchuck in the town of West Turin.

The results were confirmed by lab results via New York’s Department of Health.

Unfortunately, a pet animal was exposed and has been placed under a six-month quarantine and requires a rabies booster.

Lewis County Public Health reminds all Lewis County residents and those that visit our county that rabies is a very serious and deadly disease affecting the central nervous system.

It can be transmitted from infected animals to humans if they are exposed to the saliva or nervous tissue of a rabid animal through a bite or scratch.

According to public health officials, Summer is peak season for bat activity and activity is certainly rising here in Lewis County.

If residents find a bat in their home and there is any chance of human or pet exposure, do not let it outside, it should be safely captured and saved for rabies testing.

It is very important for people and their pets to avoid direct contact with wild animals as well as stray domestic animals, particularly if the animals are behaving abnormally, and ensure your pets are up to date with rabies vaccinations.

The next rabies clinic will be held in September, and the date will be published in the coming weeks.

For more information about rabies, call Lewis County Public Health at 315-376-5453.

LCPH image.