Health Department Reports Rabies Positive Cow in the Southwest Region of Livingston County
MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., Sept. 16, 2026 — The Livingston County Department of Health is reporting that a cow located on a single farm in southwest Livingston County tested positive for rabies following laboratory testing conducted Monday.
At this time, the public is not at risk. Two farmers were exposed and are currently receiving rabies post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP treatment, as a precautionary measure. The Livingston County Department of Health is working closely with the County Board of Health and the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets on the response. The Department of Agriculture and Markets has recommended immediate rabies vaccination of the affected herd to prevent further infections. The health department will continue working with state, local and other appropriate partners to determine next steps. There is no evidence of increased risk to livestock outside of the single affected farm.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and can infect all mammals, including livestock. The virus is generally transmitted through the saliva or nervous tissue of an infected animal, most commonly through a bite. Human exposure can occur when infectious material comes into contact with a bite, scratch, open wound, or the eyes, nose, or mouth.
“While finding rabies in livestock is uncommon, the general public is not at risk. The two farmers who were exposed to the sick animal are receiving treatment,” said Dr. Joan Flender, Medical Director of the Livingston County Department of Health. “Rabies is transmitted when infectious saliva or nervous tissue enters the body, most commonly through a bite. We are working with our agricultural partners to assess the situation and take the appropriate precautions. Anyone who believes they had direct contact with the animal should contact the Livingston County Department of Health so that their circumstances can be evaluated.”
The Health Department reminds residents not to approach, handle, or attempt to care for an animal suspected of having rabies. Anyone who believes they may have been bitten, scratched, or otherwise exposed to a potentially rabid animal should thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water and contact the Livingston County Department of Health or a healthcare provider promptly.
All potential rabies exposures should be reported to the Livingston County Department of Health.
For the safety of pets and the convenience of County residents, the Livingston County Health Department offers rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets throughout the year in several community locations. The next vaccination clinic is scheduled for Oct. 2, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Babcock Park in Dansville. To register for an appointment, visit https://www.livingstoncountyny.gov/932/Rabies-Clinics.
It is important to be aware of the facts and use caution to protect both your family and your pets. If you have any questions or would like further information on rabies or rabies vaccination clinics, please contact the Livingston County Department of Health at 243-7280 or visit www.livingstoncountyny.gov/eh.
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