Oneida County Health Department issues notice amidst several confirmed cases of rabid animals

Experts for Oneida County Health Department are issuing a notice of caution amidst a swath of recently confirmed cases of rabid animals.

Although most of these encounters are on the outskirts of our listening region, health officials say rabid animals can roam wherever they can have access. Specifically, the health department said there was a case where a person was exposed to a rabid bat in the town of Vienna and another person exposed to a fox near Utica.

Furthermore, a pair from Camden area were exposed to another fox that the health department says was likely rabid, however; the health department is still waiting on official lab testing results.

As usual, residents and families are strongly encouraged to keep away from wild animals. If you happen to witness an animal that does not appear frightened by your presence, or is acting strangely (I.E: drooling, foaming at the mouth, erratic movements, etc.), health officials say those are all strong indicators that an animal is likely rabid.

Oneida County Health Department image.

Families should ensure that their pets are up to date with their rabies vaccinations.

For more information on upcoming rabies vaccine clinics throughout Oneida County, be sure to call 315-798-5064 or visit Oneida County Health Department's website.

Headline image courtesy via the CDC.