A feral cat found in South Hempstead has tested positive for rabies, Nassau County Health Department officials said Friday
This is only the second case of terrestrial rabies this year in Nassau County after a surge in wildlife rabies cases in 2025. That year, 26 raccoons and one stray cat tested positive for the dangerous virus. Bats, who also carry the virus, are not counted in terrestrial rabies cases
The cases appear to have moved west into Suffolk County where rabies has been found in 50 raccoons and two cats since February 2025
Rabies is a potentially deadly virus transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. That transfer can happen through a bite or the infected saliva getting into an open wound, eyes, nose or mouth, according to the state Health Department
"The decline in confirmed rabies cases this year is encouraging and reflects the success of our ongoing rabies control efforts," Nassau County Commissioner of Health Dr. Irina Gelman said in a statement. "However, this latest case serves as an important reminder that rabies is still present in Nassau County. We urge residents to avoid contact with wild and feral animals and make sure their pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations."
From breaking news to special features and documentaries, the NewsdayTV team is covering the issues that matter to you
Even though the rabies cases are primarily in wil