Rabies-positive feral cat found in Nassau County, reports Herald Community Newspapers

The recent discovery of a feral cat testing positive for rabies in Cedarhurst, Nassau County, has raised concerns among residents and health officials. This marks the first reported case of rabies in the county since 2016, when a raccoon was identified with the disease. The Nassau County Department of Health has issued a warning to residents to avoid contact with feral and wild animals and to ensure their pets are up to date with their rabies vaccinations.

Nassau Health Commissioner Irina Gelman emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures to protect the community from the spread of rabies. In response to this incident, the Nassau County Department of Health has partnered with the Town of Hempstead to offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats, and ferrets. The vaccination clinic will take place on Saturday, Aug. 24, at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh.

Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin expressed pride in the partnership with Nassau County for the rabies clinic, highlighting the importance of safeguarding pets and communities from this deadly and preventable disease. It is crucial for pet owners to ensure that their dogs, cats, and ferrets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations to protect them from exposure to rabies.

Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted to humans and pets through bites, scratches, or salivary contact from an infected animal. To prevent exposure to possible rabies, residents are advised not to feed or touch wild animals, stray cats, or dogs. It is also recommended to keep family pets indoors at night, avoid feeding unknown animals, and discourage them from seeking food near homes.

New York State law mandates that all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. If an unvaccinated pet or one that is overdue for its vaccination comes in contact with a rabid animal, the pet must either be euthanized or strictly quarantined for up to six months. However, if a vaccinated animal encounters a wild animal, it only requires a booster vaccination within five days of exposure.

In the event of an animal bite or scratch, individuals should seek medical help immediately and contact the Nassau County Department of Health. Residents are also encouraged to report any dead, sick, or abnormal acting animals for possible collection and rabies testing. For more information on rabies and how to protect against it, residents can visit the Nassau County Department of Health website.

Overall, it is essential for residents to stay informed about the risks of rabies and take necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their pets from this potentially deadly disease. By staying vigilant and following recommended guidelines, we can work together to prevent the spread of rabies in our community.