Rabies Prevention and Control – Rabies is a universally fatal disease. The program’s mission is to rapidly identify and isolate a rabid animal and prevent further transmission to humans or other animals. The Bureau is vigilant in investigating possible human exposure to potentially rabid animals. Prompt investigation, observation, and/or testing of suspect rabid animals with essential lifesaving medication administered to those exposed prevent human death from the virus. Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services at (631) 854-0333 weekdays, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Outside of normal business hours, report animal bites or contact with wild animals to the department at (631) 852-4820. If possible, contain the animal so that it can be tested.

Arthropod-Borne Disease Program - Our mission is to prevent the spread of arthropod-borne diseases in Suffolk County through surveillance and education efforts. We conduct surveillance (collection and testing) of ticks and mosquitoes to determine the distribution and prevalence of these arthropods and the diseases they spread. We strive to educate our residents about the personal protection measures they can take to prevent tick and mosquito bites.