AKWESASNE — (Ohiarihkó:wa/July 30, 2026) The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) Animal Control Program is providing notification of a 2nd positive rabies case has been verified through Franklin County Public Health Department, the animal was tested and positive test results were reported on July 28, 2026.
Akwesasne residents are encouraged to avoid contact with wild animals and to ensure their pets are vaccinated, as rabies is a fatal disease spread through the saliva or bite of an infected animal. Signs of a rabies viral infection include: foaming at the mouth, excess drooling, aggression, disorientation, and a noticeable change in behavior. Common carriers of the rabies virus include raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, community members are urged not to approach sick or injured wildlife as they may be carriers of the virus.
The following is provided to assist Tribal members in ensuring their pets are properly vaccinated;
The Franklin County Office of Public Health is hosting a series of free vaccination clinics, the link to sign up: https://bit.ly/4bfwDV4 or call (518) 481-1710 to register, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Registration links for rabies clinics become available 10 days prior to the event date.
Anyone who has had direct exposure to the saliva or brain tissue of a suspected rabid animal should wash all of their wounds, seek medical attention immediately, and report any animal bites or rabies exposure to the St. Lawrence County Public Health (315) 386-2325, Franklin County Public Health (518) 481-1725, or the Animal Control Program (518) 358- 2273. If an animal is exhibiting the signs of a rabies infection and poses a threat to human life, please contact the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police (518) 358-9200.
Please be advised, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services Program is working with NYS Department of Health to protect the people and pets of Northern Franklin County ftom the threat of rabies by conducting oral rabies vaccinations (OVR) drops around the region from July 31- August 5. These organizations will be utilizing low-flying aircrafts. Community members should not be alarmed by the presence of such aircraft.