Rabid raccoon found in Somerset County, health officials warn
Officials said a resident's dogs were exposed to the raccoon on June 15 and killed it in their backyard.
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A raccoon found in the area of Spring Hollow Road in Far Hills has tested positive for rabies, prompting a warning from the Somerset County Department of Health.
Officials said a resident's dogs were exposed to the raccoon on June 15 and killed it in their backyard. The animal was collected. Tests by the New Jersey Department of Public Health confirmed the presence of rabies.
The dogs were current on their rabies vaccinations and are being quarantined as required by law, according to health officials.
Somerset County Health officials said rabies is a serious illness, but can be prevented with prompt treatment. Residents are urged to vaccinate their pets and avoid contact with wild or stray animals, particularly those that appear sick or are behaving unusually.
Health officials said people can contract rabies through animal bites or when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches. Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal should wash the area with soap and water, seek medical attention and report the incident to local police and health officials.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, 20 raccoons tested positive for rabies statewide between January and March this year.
