PRESTON — The Chenango County Department of Health has announced a rabies alert after a raccoon tested positive in Preston.

On May 30, a raccoon located on County Route 10 was tested by the New York State Wadsworth Laboratory and found to have rabies.

The Chenango County Health Department warns residents and visitors in the area to take precaution and not pick up or handle any stray or wild animal.

Director of Chenango County Public Health Isaiah Sutton said symptoms of rabies includes weight loss, appearing malnourished, paralysis, and foaming at the mouth, which is caused by an inability to swallow.

They noted, it's important to teach children about the dangers of stray and wild animals.

If an animal is acting strange or aggressive, contact the Chenango County Sheriff's office or the Chenango County Health Department. Also, report any animal bite or scratch to your health care provider.

Sutton recently said symptoms of rabies includes weight loss, appearing malnourished, paralysis, and foaming at the mouth, which is caused by an inability to swallow.

Keep an eye on pets and livestock and if you see any strange behavior, contact your veterinarian immediately.

It is also advised to stay at a distance from wildlife and do not attempt to feed, approach or touch wild animals.

All dogs, cats, ferrets, and livestock should be vaccinated against rabies. Sutton recently said if an animal is vaccinated and exposed to rabies, the treatment is a simple booster shot.

However, if the animal is not vaccinated, the only options are a strict six-month quarantine or euthanasia.

The Chenango County Health Department strongly advised against killing healthy appearing animals merely due to this warning.

If bitten or scratched by any animal, wash and rinse the wound thoroughly for several minutes and then apply a disinfectant. Call a medical provider to seek immediate attention and then call to report the bite/scratch to the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1673.

- Kelli Miller,

Sun Staff Writer