Press Releases

A raccoon in Utica and a skunk in Remsen have both tested positive for rabies, but no human exposures were reported.
Both animals were sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on October 31, 2023 and positive results were reported on November 1, 2023.

The Oneida County Health Department is raising awareness of lead poisoning during this National Lead Poisoning Prevention week. “Oneida County continues to be on the forefront of lead poisoning prevention,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “Our Health Department conducts outreach and education throughout the county and works with medical providers and other partners to remedy these dangerous situations. We must do everything we can to protect children and families from this often-hidden threat.”

A skunk has tested positive for rabies in the City of Utica. The skunk was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on October 10, 2023 and positive results were reported on October 11, 2023. One person was exposed to the skunk.

A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Remsen. The raccoon was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on September 13, 2023 and positive results were reported on September 14, 2023.  Three dogs were exposed to the raccoon and received rabies vaccine boosters.

A bat has tested positive for rabies in Rome. The bat was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on September 5, 2023 and positive results were reported on September 6, 2023. Three people have received post exposure prophylaxis and four pets received booster vaccines.

Four kittens have tested positive for rabies in Rome. The kittens were sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on August 14 and August 15, 2023 and positive results were reported on August 15 and August 16, 2023. Nine people were exposed and have received post exposure prophylaxis.