Rabies is a deadly viral disease that can affect both animals and humans. It is caused by a virus that is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites. Rabies is most often spread through bites from animals that have the disease, like raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, as stated by Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. **Understanding the Dangers of Rabies**
- Rabies is a fatal disease for both animals and humans if left untreated.
- It is preventable with proper vaccinations and precautions.
- The virus is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually through bites.
**What to Do If You’re Bitten by an Animal**
| **Step 1: Wash the Wound Immediately** | Wash the wound with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection. |
| **Step 2: Seek Medical Attention** | Seek medical attention right away, even if the wound seems minor. |
| **Step 3: Report the Incident** | Report the incident to the Genesee or Orleans County Health Departments. |
“Baby or young animals might look cute, but they can still have rabies. Don’t touch, feed, or approach wild animals or stray pets. If you see an animal that looks hurt or sick, call animal control instead,” said Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. **Preventing Rabies in Your Community**
- Make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
- Do not go near or touch wild animals, baby animals, or stray cats and dogs, even if they seem hurt or lost. Report any unusual animal behavior.
- Follow leash laws and keep pets on a leash so they do not encounter wild animals or strays.
- Prevent bats from entering living spaces. If you find a bat in your home, safely capture it and contact the health department.
“Rabies is most often spread through bites from animals that have the disease, like raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes,” stated Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “But the good news is, it is preventable. By taking these precautions and keeping our community safe, we can reduce the risk of rabies transmission.”
**Take Advantage of Upcoming Rabies Vaccination Clinics**
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans Counties, offered at no charge. Clinics are scheduled for:
| **Clinic Location** | **Date** | **Time** |
| Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia) | Thursday, May 15 | 4 to 6:30 p.m. |
| Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion) | Saturday, April 26 | 9 to 11:30 a.m. |
| Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia) | Thursday, August 7 | 4 to 6:30 p.m. |
| Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion) | Wednesday, June 18 | 4 to 6:30 p.m. |
| Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia) | Thursday, October 9 | 4 to 6:30 p.m. |
| Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion) | Saturday, October 25 | 9 to 11:30 a.m. |
For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org. You can also contact your respective health department:
| Genesee County Health Department | 585-344-2580 x5555 | Health@geneseeny.gov |
| Orleans County Health Department | 585-589-3278 | OCPublicHealth@orleanscountyny.gov |
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