Atlantic County issued a rabies alert Thursday after another rabid bat was found making it the sixth rabies case of the year in the county.
The latest animal was found by a homeowner on Calhoun Street. This is the second rabid bat found in Mays Landing in the past week, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.
Atlantic County public health officials say two people and a cat were exposed to the sick animals. They say the bat was sent to the state lab for testing and was confirmed positive on Aug. 23.
Rabies could be deadly if left untreated. Health officials say it can be transmitted through direct contact with saliva through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose or mouth.
Most human cases of rabies are the result of a bite from an infected animal. If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at 609-645-5971.
The Atlantic County Animal Shelter provides free rabies vaccination clinics each month for both dogs and cats by appointment only at aclink.org/animalshelter. The next clinic will be held Sunday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon at 240 Old Turnpike in Pleasantville.
Residents are advised to not approach wildlife that may be behaving strangely, especially nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons found during daylight hours. Instead, call your local Animal Control Officer. Contact information is available on the county website.
