Shelter Kitten Tests Positive For Rabies In Burlington Co.

WESTAMPTON, NJ — A kitten housed at the Burlington County Animal Shelter tested positive Thursday for rabies. Officials are investigating whether any members of the public were exposed.

The kitten, a stray found in Maple Shade, was brought to the shelter in Westampton on May 29. It was quarantined as part of the shelter's normal procedures and showed no rabies symptoms during that period.

The animal's quarantine period ended June 19, and it became available for adoption at the shelter. It began showing symptoms on Tuesday and was tested for rabies.

The Burlington County Health Department was notified Thursday that the kitten tested positive.

Two animal shelter employees who had been exposed to the kitten received rabies boosters. Both employees were previously vaccinated as part of the shelter's protocols.

The county health department is investigating whether anyone else was exposed.

"Anyone who visited the shelter between June 19th and June 24th and were bit, scratched or had contact with a brown and black colored kitten’s saliva is encouraged to seek medical guidance from their primary care doctor or another physician," a county advisory said. "They should also notify the Health Department at 609-265-5548."

Health officials believe the kitten became infected before it was brought to the shelter. The disease typically remains dormant in animals for several weeks before symptoms develop.

Human deaths from rabies are rare in the United States, with fewer than 10 per year since 1960, according to the CDC. But rabies is fatal in more than 99 percent of cases, with no treatment once signs or symptoms emerge, so post-exposure treatment is vital for people and animals.

The disease, which affects the brain, is spread through a bite or when saliva from an infected animal touches broken skin, open wounds, or the lining of the mouth, nose or eyes.

Rabies in certain animals, especially wildlife, is common in New Jersey, officials said.

County officials urged residents to make sure their pets are up to date with rabies shots. The Burlington County Animal Shelter typically holds a free rabies vaccine clinic every month.

"Rabies cases have been discovered in several Burlington County towns, which is why it is imperative for all residents to make sure their pets' rabies vaccinations are up to date," a county spokesperson said.

People and pets should also stay a safe distance away from stray animals or wildlife, officials said.

For more rabies information, visit the CDC's webpage. Anyone with questions or concerns can contact the Burlington County Health Department at 609-265-5548 or the Burlington County Animal Shelter at 609-265-5073.