A fox has tested positive for rabies in the City of Rome. This fox was located around Stevens Field, W. Thomas and W. Embargo Streets on Sunday, November 8, 2026 and may have exposed numerous people. Any person who was in contact with this fox is urged to contact Oneida County Health Department at 315-798-5064 to discuss the exposure and treatment. Rabies is preventable but 100% fatal if it is left untreated.
A raccoon has also tested positive for rabies in Lee. The raccoon was already deceased when it was handled. Rabies is transmitted through saliva and other bodily fluids of animals and can be transmitted after death. Any person who handles deceased animals should remain cautious and take protective measures such as wearing gloves to avoid exposure to potential diseases.
Both the fox and raccoon were sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on November 9, 2026, and positive results were reported on November 9, 2026. Three people are known to have been exposed to these animals and are receiving post exposure prophylaxis.
