Rabid Raccoon Confirmed In East Brunswick

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – A raccoon found in East Brunswick has tested positive for rabies, the Middlesex County Office of Health Services confirmed to township officials Tuesday.

The raccoon was found in the vicinity of Manor Place and Myron Place. This is the first rabid animal reported in East Brunswick and the second within Middlesex County in 2024.

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services continues to monitor rabies cases within the municipality.

“Residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the Police Department. Additionally, it is recommended that residents should avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to your local health department and consult a physician as soon as possible. Finally, be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations,” officials said.

Rabies is caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded mammals, including man. The rabies virus is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted by bite, or possibly by contamination of an open cut.

New Jersey is enzootic for raccoon and bat variants of rabies. Bats, skunks, groundhogs, foxes, cats and dogs represent about 95 percent of animals diagnosed with rabies in the United States.

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services is advising residents to follow these guidelines in order to prevent rabies from being transmitted:

• Immediately report a bite from a wild or domestic animal to your local health department. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible after the bite. Contamination of open cuts and scratches with saliva of potentially rabid animals should also be washed off immediately. Consult a physician as soon as possible.
• Immediately report any wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior.
• Be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccination. If unsure, call the veterinarian. Call the local health department for free rabies vaccination clinic availability.
• Animal proof your home and yard Make sure all garbage containers have tight-fitting lids, do not leave pet food or water outside, do not allow rainwater to collect in outdoor containers or equipment and keep the yard free of garbage and debris.
• Do not feed or handle wild animals.
• Avoid contact with stray animals or pets other than your own.
• Try to prevent your pets from coming into contact with wild animals.
• Screen off vents to attics and other areas that could provide shelter for bats

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