Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Clark: Health Department

CLARK, NJ — The Clark Township Health Department warned residents on Thursday about a raccoon that tested positive for rabies.

The Healthy Department said the raccoon made contact with a dog on Meadow Road.

Residents who see an animal acting strangely are advised to stay away and call the Clark Township Police Department or Health Department.

"Rabies is preventable with prompt medical attention," the township wrote in an announcement."People can get rabies through animal bites or when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches."

The township said anyone who is bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal, including stray dogs and cats, should promptly wash the area with soap and water and immediately seek medical attention.

If a pet is bitten or scratched, people are advised to take it to a vet promptly and report the incident immediately to the Police and Health Department.

To protect pets from rabies, pet owners are encouraged to ensure pets receive rabies vaccinations on a regular basis and that their pets’ vaccinations are current.

Additionally, other pets, such as cats and ferrets, should receive current rabies vaccinations. Pet owners are advised to keep pets under direct supervision so they do not come in contact with wild animals.