The situation
If you’re planning a hike in Westchester, you might want to watch your back. A woman was bitten by a coyote on the Old Croton Aqueduct trail near Warburton Avenue in Hastings on Wednesday, and the vibes are seriously off. Officials are highkey concerned the animal could be rabid due to its unprovoked and aggressive behavior.
What to do
Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler is telling everyone to keep their distance. If you spot a coyote, do not approach it. Instead, make loud noises and slowly back away. The victim is currently undergoing emergency preventative treatment for rabies. Police and animal control are actively searching the area, but there is no word yet on whether they have located the animal.
Why it matters
This isn't the first brush with rabies in the region lately. Rabies cases in raccoons across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island are up 57% compared to last year. If you or your pet are bitten, or if you see a wild animal acting weird—think staggering or foaming at the mouth—call the Westchester County Department of Health immediately at (914) 813-5000. Real talk: keep your pets and little siblings close when you're outside.
