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Rabies Awareness A raccoon in the Town of Cincinnatus has recently tested positive for rabies. The Cortland County Health Department urges all residents to take common sense steps to avoid exposure to rabies: - If you find a bat in your home, do not release it and seek advice from the Cortland County Health Department at 753-5035 about what to do next. Immediately report any possible contact with bats, such as bats in rooms with sleeping persons, unattended children, or individuals with mental impairment. - Avoid contact with wild animals. Be suspicious of wild animals that are unusually tame or aggressive, especially those that attack your pets. If your pet is attacked by a wild animal, avoid handling it for at least 2 hours. Keep it away from other people and animals. If you must handle it, wear gloves. If seeking medical attention for your pet, be sure to advise your veterinarian of the attack so that they may take precautions. - Do not attract wildlife to your yard by feeding them or feeding your pets outside. - Avoid contact with any stray animals, especially stray cats. It is especially important to supervise children. - Treatment is essential if you have been exposed to rabies! If you think an exposure has occurred, call the Health Department at 753-5035 and a staff member can assist you. - Be sure your animals are immunized against rabies and that their vaccinations are kept up-to-date even if it is an indoor cat. J:\Environmental\Environm\WPDATA\rabies\educational material\Rabies awareness racoon 2017.doc