Nassau Rabies Outbreak Linked to NYC Animal Migration

Nassau County has declared an imminent public health threat following a rise in rabies cases, with 25 raccoons and feral cats testing positive since July 2024 after nearly a decade without terrestrial rabies. The outbreak is partly attributed to reduced rabies control along the Nassau-Queens border, possibly allowing rabid animals from New York City to enter the county. Although no human infections have been reported, officials urge residents to avoid contact with wild or stray animals and ensure pets are vaccinated. The emergency declaration allows the county to access more state resources and expand wildlife vaccination bait programs in affected areas. Suffolk County has also reported rabid raccoons, particularly near its border with Nassau. Authorities are monitoring the situation and encourage prompt reporting of abnormal animal behavior.