Health experts are sounding alarms as rabies cases rise nationwide, according to WSYR. Nassau County declared a public health threat after confirming 25 cases in wild animals this year, while Suffolk County reported its first since 2009.
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms begin. It spreads through bites or scratches, often from raccoons or bats. Bats are especially dangerous since bites can go unnoticed. Recent deaths in Michigan and California underscore the disease’s deadly risk.
Officials urge vaccination for pets, avoiding wild animals, and starting post-exposure treatment immediately if bitten. Rabid animals may act erratically, drool excessively, or appear paralyzed.
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