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Rabid Raccoons Spark Rabies Health Crisis on Long Island

9/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A rabid raccoon in Nassau raises concerns as rabies cases increase on Long Island.
Nassau County declared rabies an "imminent public health threat" in July, reporting 23 cases in 2025, including 22 raccoons and one cat.
Suffolk County recorded nine rabid raccoons in 2025, the first since 2009.
A funding cut halted NYC's rabies vaccine baiting program, contributing to the rise.
Free rabies vaccination clinics for pets are available in both counties; residents should seek medical care if bitten or scratched by wild animals.

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Story summary

A rabid raccoon in Nassau raises concerns as rabies cases increase on Long Island.
Nassau County declared rabies an "imminent public health threat" in July, reporting 23 cases in 2025, including 22 raccoons and one cat.
Suffolk County recorded nine rabid raccoons in 2025, the first since 2009.
A funding cut halted NYC's rabies vaccine baiting program, contributing to the rise.
Free rabies vaccination clinics for pets are available in both counties; residents should seek medical care if bitten or scratched by wild animals.