The Environmental Health Unit of the Chautauqua County Department of Health & Humans Services received word Tuesday that the first rabid animal of 2019 has been confirmed in the county. A youth turkey hunter was attacked, on Sunday, April 21 while hunting turkey near Open Meadows Road in the Town of North Harmony. Fortunately the youth was wearing a heavy jacket and was accompanied by his father. The raccoon latched onto his jacket biting through the jacket and inflicting a bite. This would have been a much different story if he was wearing a light weight shirt or hunting alone. The youth was able to fling the raccoon clear allowing his father time to shoot the raccoon.

“This incident should serve as a reminder to residents, particularly outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, hunters, etc.), that animal rabies is a serious public health concern and continues to be present…