AKWESASNE — (Ohiarí:ha/June 29, 2026) The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT) Animal Control Program is providing notification of a positive rabies a raccoon found on a Tribal member’s property, the animal was tested and positive test results were reported on June, 25, 2026.
The Rabies virus can be fatal to humans if proper medical care is not received to treat it. Rabies can be spread through the saliva of infected animals and is usually spread through an animal bite, or scratch. 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 racoons, skunks, bats, and foxes, community members are urged not to approach sick or injured wildlife as they may be carriers of the virus.
Household pets such as cats and dogs may spread or contract rabies if they were to come in contact with an infected wild animal. Community members are urged to ensure all household pets are up to date on their rabies vaccination. The Franklin County Office of Public Health is hosting a series of free vaccination clinics, the link to sign up: https://apps2.health.ny.gov/.../appl.../cdmspr/2/counties... or call (518) 481-1710 to register, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-4p.m.
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.