Raccoon Tests Positive for Rabies in Whitesboro

A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Whitesboro. The raccoon was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on July 15, 2026, and positive results were reported on July 16, 2026. Two humans were exposed to the raccoon.

Signs of rabies include:

• Animal acting strangely

• Animal acting mad

•Animal acting shy

• Animal getting unusually close

• Drooling or foaming from the mouth If you see an animal, wild or stray, with these signs, do not approach it and stay away. If any animal is acting strangely, call your local animal control officer for help.

Additional resources include:

• Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator: Licensed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

• Wildlife Rehabilitator: Licensed by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

• Department of Environmental Conservation at 1-844-332-3267

• Environmental Conservation Officer Rosters

• Local police department

Per NYS Public Health Law, all dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated for rabies by 4 months-old and then one year following the initial dose. Dogs and cats need to receive a booster dose every three years following. Ferrets must receive booster doses annually. For the safety of pets and the convenience of county residents, the Oneida County Health Department offers Rabies Vaccination Clinics throughout the year in various community locations. The next two clinics are taking place in Rome and Trenton • August 3, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Rome Kennedy Arena

• October 9, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Town of Trenton Offices

For more information on rabies prevention, visit oneidacountyny.gov/rabies. If you have questions or are concerned about a possible rabies exposure, contact the Oneida County Health Department at 315-798-5064 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.