SC New York News

The Chemung County Health Department is reaching out to individuals who may have encountered a black and white domestic cat in the Breesport area. The department is specifically looking for anyone who might have been bitten by this cat near Borden Hill Rd, Holloran Dr, and Jackson Creek Rd between February 7th and 13th, 2025.

Tests conducted by the New York State Rabies Lab in Albany confirmed that the cat was infected with rabies. As a result, several people who had close interactions with the animal are now receiving vaccinations.

Rabies is a viral disease affecting the nervous system and is typically fatal if untreated before symptoms appear. Human exposure usually occurs through bites or scratches from an infected animal's saliva. Symptoms of rabies in animals can include changes in behavior such as aggressiveness or unusual friendliness, as well as physical signs like staggering, convulsions, frothing at the mouth, and paralysis.

Those who believe they or their pets were bitten by this cat should contact the Chemung County Health Department immediately at 607-737-2019 during business hours or 607-737-2044 after hours for evaluation. Prompt treatment is advised if exposure occurred.

This incident underscores the importance of avoiding unknown animals and ensuring pets have current rabies vaccinations once they reach four months old.