Press Releases

Memorial Day weekend is the kick-off to summer and cook-outs. Warmer temperatures can cause germs to flourish, and food-borne illness can be serious and sometimes life-threatening. Practicing good handling, cooking and storage can help avoid food poisoning and illness.

Wash your hands if you are preparing/cooking the food. Wash your hands before you eat. It’s a simple task, but one that is extremely important in helping keep us all healthy. Make sure the utensils, dishes and cooking surfaces are also kept clean to avoid cross contamination. Do not prepare or serve food if you don’t feel well or have sores or cuts.

The Oneida County Health Department is seeking proposals to design, implement, and operate a sensory room for children and youth with special healthcare needs and their families at the 2026 Oneida County Fair. A maximum of $77,559.00 will be awarded.

A fox has tested positive for rabies in Whitesboro. The fox was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on May 11, 2026 and positive results were reported on May 11, 2026. A dog was exposed to the fox and is quarantined. There were no human exposures.

A fox has tested positive for rabies in Camden. The fox was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on April 30, 2026 and positive results were reported on April 30, 2026. Three people were exposed to the fox and are receiving post-exposure prophylaxis.

The Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) announced today that it has scheduled rabies vaccination clinics.
The events will take place:

•June 1, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Annsville Highway Garage
•July 13, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Vienna Town Garage

Appointments are required for the clinic and can be made by calling 315-798-5064 or online at oneidacountyny.gov/rabies.

A bat has tested positive for rabies in Rome. The bat was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on April 14, 2026 and positive results were reported on April 17, 2026. Two people were exposed to the bat and are receiving post-exposure prophylaxis.