Tompkins County Health Officials Seek Individuals Exposed to Raccoons in Lansing
Tompkins County Health Department is urging residents of Lansing to contact them if they have had any potential exposure to raccoons in the area. This follows the confirmation of a raccoon in Lansing that has tested positive for rabies. Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It is primarily transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, typically through bites or scratches. Health officials are particularly concerned about potential exposures that occurred on or around July 29, when the infected raccoon was active in the area near Danby and Hanshaw Roads in Lansing. Individuals who may have had contact with any raccoons in this area during that time are strongly urged to reach out to the health department. “It is essential that anyone who has potentially been exposed to a rabid animal receive prompt medical attention,” said Dr. William Kelley, Commissioner of the Tompkins County Health Department. “Early treatment can prevent the development of the disease.” Symptoms of rabies in humans can include: * Fever * Headache * Nausea * Vomiting * Fatigue * Weakness * Confusion * Agitation * Hallucinations * Hydrophobia (fear of water) “If you believe you may have had any contact with a raccoon, even if you did not see any breaks in your skin, please contact us immediately,” said Dr. Kelley. “We need to assess your risk and determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is necessary.” Individuals who have had potential exposure to the rabid raccoon should contact the Tompkins County Health Department at (607) 274-6000 as soon as possible. Health officials are also advising residents to take the following precautions: * Avoid contact with wild animals, especially raccoons. * Do not feed or approach wildlife. * Keep pets vaccinated against rabies. * Report any unusual animal behavior to the health department. * Dispose of trash properly in covered containers. Rabies is a serious disease, but it can be prevented. By taking necessary precautions and seeking prompt medical attention if exposed, the risk of infection can be significantly reduced.
Tompkins County health officials are searching for people exposed to raccoons in Lansing.
The Tompkins County Health Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying anyone who may have been exposed to a raccoon in the Town of Lansing on or around August 10, 2023. The raccoon in question has tested positive for rabies, and health officials are concerned that people who may have come into contact with it could be at risk of infection. Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the nervous system. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, and can be spread to humans through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva. Symptoms of rabies can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. In severe cases, rabies can lead to paralysis, coma, and death. Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the raccoon in question should contact the Tompkins County Health Department immediately at (607) 274-6688. The Health Department is also urging residents to take precautions to avoid exposure to raccoons and other wild animals. These precautions include: * Do not approach or feed wild animals. * Keep your pets vaccinated against rabies. * Secure your garbage and compost so that it is not accessible to wild animals. * If you see a sick or injured wild animal, do not touch it. Contact the Tompkins County Health Department at (607) 274-6688.
