Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies In Warren Township

WARREN, NJ — A raccoon found in Warren has tested positive for rabies, the health department warns.

The raccoon tested positive on Jan. 28 and those who may have been exposed were identified. However, anyone who has had direct contact with a raccoon is still asked to contact the Health Department immediately.

As a result, the health department is offering helpful reminders to residents:

• Make sure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, especially rabies
• Pet owners are encouraged to be aware of their pets’ location and activities at all times in order to try to avoid preventable exposures.
• If a pet is exposed to a wild animal, it is very important to notify the Health Department, have the pet seen by a veterinarian, test the wild animal if it is available, and to avoid human contact with any saliva, wounds, etc. to prevent human exposures.

"In addition, we want to remind everyone, and especially those with children, that while wild animals may appear cute and cuddly, they are wild and can be very dangerous. Please stay away from wild animals and keep children and pets away, too," said the health department.

Rabies, a neurological disease, is almost 100 percent preventable. However, rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms have developed so prompt action is necessary to prevent rabies, warned the health department.

To contact the Warren Township Health Department call 908-753-8000, Ext. 239 or email pmartins@warrennj.org. If an incident occurs after normal business hours, contact the Warren Township Police Department at 908-753-1000.

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