Raccoon tests positive for rabies in South Plainfield
County officials reported that a resident trapped the raccoon on Aug. 20
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Health officials are warning residents to remain vigilant after a raccoon tested positive for rabies in South Plainfield, marking the borough’s first confirmed rabid animal of the year.
The Middlesex County Office of Health Services reported that a resident trapped the raccoon on Aug. 20 near Orchard Drive and Geary Lane. A wildlife rehabilitator brought the animal to a facility, where it later died. State testing confirmed the raccoon tested positive for rabies on Aug. 24.
County health officials confirmed there were no reported human or domestic-animal exposures tied to the case. It marks the second rabid animal reported in Middlesex County in 2026.
Health authorities advise residents to report wild animals exhibiting unusual behavior to local police, keep their distance from wildlife and ensure domestic pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations. Any bites from wild or domestic animals should be reported to local health departments and evaluated by a physician immediately.
