The Chautauqua County Department of Health & Human Services confirmed the first rabid animal of 2019 in the County.
Officials say on Sunday a youth turkey hunter was attacked by a rabid raccoon while hunting near Open Meadows Road in the Town of North Harmony.
The raccoon latched onto his heavy jacket and bit through the jacket.
He was accompanied by his father, who was able to shoot the raccoon after the young man flung the raccoon off of his jacket.
“This incident should serve as a reminder to residents, particularly outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, hunters, etc.), that animal rabies is a serious public health concern and continues to be present in Chautauqua County,” said Mark Stow, County Director of Environmental Health Services.
The department reminds pet owners that New York State requires rabies vaccination by the age of 4 months for all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets.
A free rabies clinic will be held on May 4 at the Town of Poland Highway Barn at 533 Grubb Hill Rd. in Kennedy, NY.
Read the full release from the Department of Health & Human Services below: