Rabid Raccoon Found In Morris Township

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ — A raccoon found in Morris Township has tested positive for rabies, health department officials said.

No one was attacked, health administrator Kevin Breen said. The raccoon is now dead. "The only way to test for rabies is to examine the brain tissue at the State laboratory," Breen explained.

Raccoons are a common carrier of rabies. Infected animals become violent, act strangely, and foam at the mouth. Although wild animals should always be avoided, animals with any sign of the virus are particularly important to stay away from.

If you believe you've been exposed through a bite or scratch, immediately wash the bite and seek medical attention. If you think a pet has been exposed, contact the Health Department at 973-326-7390 and your veterinarian.

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