Rabies-Infected Raccoon Found In Montclair; Town Issues Advisory

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A rabies-infected raccoon was found in Montclair last week, authorities announced Friday.

Montclair township officials released the following statement:

“The New Jersey Department of Health notified the township Health Department today that a raccoon found on Christopher Street on August 8 tested positive for the rabies virus. Rabies is a fatal disease of warm-blooded mammals caused by a virus, most frequently spread through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. An infected animal has the rabies virus in its saliva and infects other animals or people through bites and contact with saliva. Once infected animals become ill, they may bite or attack other animals or people. Common carriers of the virus are raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats, and feral (stray) cats. Residents are advised to stay away from wild animals and animals you do not know. Please do not feed stray animals. Be certain that your pets are licensed, vaccinated, and up to date on rabies vaccination.”

According to Montclair officials, some warning signs of neurological diseases like rabies and distemper include “appearing drunk or excessively wobbly, circling, seeming partially paralyzed, unable to climb, acting disorientated, or mutilating itself.”

“If you notice an animal acting strangely or if your pet has an altercation with any wildlife acting in an erratic manner or if you find a bat in your bedroom during overnight hours, please contact the Animal Control Service Request Line ASAP at 862-621-9113 to have an ACO dispatched,” officials said.

Montclair township officials recommended that people visit the following website for more information about rabies.

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