WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — Someone left five well-fed baby raccoons
on the doorstep of the Westchester County Health Department Friday
morning, and the department said that person should call
immediately to be assessed for the possibility of rabies.
The month-old raccoons were delivered to the department's office in
Mount Kisco in a cage with bottles of milk, blankets and toys, the
department said.
"They appear to have been well cared for and nurtured, which means
that there was direct contact between these raccoons and the person
or people who were caring for them," said Dr. Sherlita Amler, the
county health commissioner. "That's why it's important that we talk
to the individual or individuals who left them to determine if they
may have been potentially exposed to rabies."
Raccoons are among the most common carriers of rabies, a disease
that is fatal if not quickly treated.
Department spokeswoman Caren Halbfinger said if the raccoons'
caretaker comes forward, he or she will be asked about any bites or
scratches. Officials also want to know if the raccoons' mother was
sick.
That would help determine whether the animals must be tested for
rabies, which can only be done by killing them, and if any people
need treatment.
The raccoons were placed with a certified wildlife rehabilitator
who will watch them for signs of the disease.
