(WNY News Now) – Jamestown – Chautauqua County health officials confirm rabies in two feral cats in Jamestown, urging residents to take precautions against this serious disease.
The Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) has reported the deaths of two feral cats in Jamestown due to rabies. These incidents underscore the ongoing risk of rabies in the area and the need for vigilant public health measures.
The first rabid cat, discovered with wounds from an animal fight, was taken in by a resident for care. Despite being kept separate from other pets, the cat’s condition worsened, and it died after displaying unusual behavior. The resident was not bitten or scratched.
The second cat, found in poor health by a local resident who frequently feeds feral cats, was taken in but died shortly after. The resident, who was scratched by the cat, received rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.
Jessica Wuerstle, County Director of Environmental Health Services, emphasized the importance of caution: “These incidents should serve as a reminder to residents to take precautions around feral or stray animals and that animal rabies is a serious public health concern and continues to be present in Chautauqua County,”
Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected mammals, making animals like feral cats particularly risky. Birds, snakes, and fish do not pose a rabies threat. The CCHD advises the following safety measures:
- Avoid feeding wild or stray animals and secure outdoor food sources.
- Do not handle wild or unfamiliar animals. Report injured wildlife to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
- Teach children to avoid unfamiliar animals and to report any bites or scratches.
- Immediately wash any bites or scratches with soap and water and consult a healthcare provider.
- Keep pets’ rabies vaccinations up-to-date, especially those that spend time outdoors or may encounter bats.
Dr. Michael Faulk, Chautauqua County’s Chief Medical Officer, noted that while rabies is life-threatening, post-exposure treatment is highly effective if administered promptly. “Rabies is a life threatening virus but post exposure treatment is very effective if used correctly,” he said.
For those concerned about rabies exposure, the Health Department offers guidance on whether to test or monitor potentially exposed animals. Chautauqua County is also planning free rabies vaccination clinics in Jamestown, with dates to be announced soon.
For more information on rabies and upcoming vaccination clinics, visit HealthyCHQ.com/rabies or call the Chautauqua County Health Department at 716-753-4481.
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