'Coyote Encounter' Near Warwick's TF Green Airport

WARWICK, RI — A person is being treated for rabies following a "coyote encounter" near T.F. Green International Airport in Warwick Tuesday night, the Rhode Island Department of Health revealed.

"Because coyotes can transmit rabies, this individual received post-exposure treatment," the health department said in a media release.

"Rhode Islanders are reminded to avoid all contact with stray or free-roaming animals," the release said.

"Rhode Island has seen an elevated number of rabid animals in 2026," according to the release.

"To date in 2026, 39 rabid animals have been identified in Rhode Island, the release said, noting this already surpassed the state's annual average of 24 rabid for the five previous years.

"In 2026, 47 people have been exposed to these rabid animals and received treatment in Rhode Island," according to the release.

Reports of people exposed to rabid or possibly rabid animals are rising across the country, and health officials say it’s important that Rhode Island residents know what to do after a bite or scratch to prevent a nearly always fatal disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a Sept. 10 health advisory that it received 17% more rabies-related inquiries in July and August compared with the same time last year. At least eight state health departments also reported increased use of preventive treatment, errors in administering it, or both.

Rabies is nearly always fatal after symptoms begin. It is preventable, however, when treatment is given promptly and correctly after an exposure.

Anyone bitten or scratched by wildlife or an animal acting strangely should immediately wash the wound with soap and water, or water alone, for 15 minutes.

The CDC recommends promptly contacting a medical provider or public health official for an assessment. The type of animal, its behavior, whether it can be tested or observed, and the nature of the contact all help determine whether treatment is needed.

See also:

• Rabies Cases Prompt Nationwide Health Advisory: What RI Residents Should Know
• 2 Raccoons Found In Warwick Test Positive For Rabies: State
• 'Potentially Rabid Bat' Spotted At Roger Williams Park Zoo: Health Department
• Rabid Animals In RI Prompt Officials To Share Prevention Methods