Rabid Raccoons Found in Huntington and East Islip

The Suffolk County Department of Health Services is reporting that raccoons found in Huntington and East Islip have tested positive for rabies.

A raccoon that appeared ill was found outside a residence in Huntington on October 29. Emergency Service Section officers responded, and the raccoon was submitted for testing. Separately, a deceased racoon was found outside a residence in East Islip on October 29. An animal control officer from the Islip Animal Shelter responded and the raccoon was submitted for testing.

The Wadsworth Center at the New York State Department of Health notified the Suffolk County Department of Health Services that both raccoons tested positive for rabies on November 6. There were no reported human or pet exposures.

There have been 42 positive terrestrial rabies confirmations in 2026 and 61 since February 7, 2025.

Rabies, a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system, is most often seen among wild animals such as raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes, but any mammal can be infected with rabies. Residents are reminded not to touch, or transport, wild animals.

Anyone who sees an abnormally acting raccoon is asked to call the Suffolk County Police Department non-emergency number at 631-852-COPS or the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at 631-444-0250.

For more information on rabies and prevention, visit https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Health-Services/Diseases-and-Illness/Report-Animal-Bites