WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Skunks and racoons in Jefferson and Lewis counties have tested positive for rabies.
Jefferson County Public Health said a rabid raccoon was located on Wellesley Island, and the rabid skunk was found in the village of Glen Park.
So far in 2025, two foxes, a bobcat, a bat, and ten other raccoons have also tested positive for rabies in Jefferson County.
Meanwhile, Lewis County Public Health reported that a skunk in the town of Lowville and a raccoon in the town of Martinsburg have tested positive for rabies.
There was no human or domestic animal contact with the rabid skunks and raccoons in either county.
The Department of Health reminds you to avoid contact with unknown animals, including possible stray pets, as they may not have been vaccinated against rabies.
They also encourage people to keep their pets’ vaccinations current, even for strictly indoor pets.
The Jefferson County Public Health Service is hosting a rabies vaccination clinic on Thursday, October 16, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Visit www.jcphs.org for more information and other clinic dates.
The next rabies clinic in Lewis County is scheduled for Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Leroy Nichols Building at the Lewis County Fairgrounds.
Copyright 2025 WWNY. All rights reserved.