Press Releases

A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Whitesboro. The raccoon was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on July 15, 2026, and positive results were reported on July 16, 2026. Two humans were exposed to the raccoon.

An air quality index alert that was issued for today, July 15, 2026, in Oneida County has been extended through 11:59 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2026. The air quality continues to remain unhealthy for everyone. In response to the air quality index alert, free KN95 masks are available at the Oneida County Office Building (first floor), 800 Park Avenue, Utica, and at the Oneida County Department of Social Services, 300 W. Dominick Street, Rome, during normal business hours. Those with health conditions increasing the risk of adverse health effects are encouraged to wear a mask when outside.

This week is predicted to be very hot and humid with temperatures projected to be well into the 90s. Extreme heat poses health risks and it’s important to be prepared and take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in New York State. The risk of heat-related illnesses this week ranges from moderate to extreme and dangerous for everyone. More information on risk can be found at: New York State Department of Health’s (NYSDOH) Heat Risk and Illness Dashboard.

The Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) announced today that it has scheduled rabies vaccination clinics.

The events will take place:

• July 13, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Vienna Town Garage (previously announced)
• August 3, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Rome Kennedy Arena (newly announced)
• October 9, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Town of Trenton Offices (newly announced)

The Oneida County Health Department announced car seat safety events that will be co-hosted with the Sheriff’s Office.

The events will take place at the following locations and times:

• Deerfield Volunteer Fire Company, 5476 Trenton Road, Utica on July 23 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Griffiss International Airport (Airport Operations Building), 706 Hangar Road, Rome on August 6 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Free car seats will be available to eligible parents/legal guardians who are in need of a car seat. Appointments are required. For those already in possession of a car seat, a certified technician can be available to check that it is installed properly, also by appointment only. There are no eligibility requirements for car seat checks.

A Raccoon has tested positive for rabies in Westmoreland. The raccoon was sent to the New York State Department of Health Wadsworth Center for testing on May 27, 2026 and positive results were reported on May 28, 2026.  No humans were exposed to the raccoon. A dog was exposed to the raccoon and received a rabies booster vaccination.