BETHLEHEM TOWNSHIP, NJ (Hunterdon County) – The Hunterdon County Heath Department has issued a public health alert after a wild raccoon found in Bethlehem Township tested positive for rabies.
Health officials said the wild raccoon, which tested positive for rabies on September 4, 2025, was in the area of Thrush Lane.
Area residents who may have had contact with this raccoon between August 19 and September 2 are urged to notify their primary care physician or the Hunterdon Medical Center Emergency Room immediately to discuss concerns about possible exposure and the need for post-exposure prophylaxis treatment, health officials said.
It is important to remember not to pick up stray animals at any time. Saliva from infected animals should be considered infectious, health officials said.
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus. The virus is found in the saliva of a rabid animal and is transmitted by a bite, or possibly by saliva of an open cut or the eyes. The disease is transmitted from animals to human or from animals to other animals. Left untreated, humans can be protected by receiving rabies prophylaxis after exposure.
How can you protect yourselves from rabies?
- Vaccinate your pets against rabies and keep vaccinations up-to-date
- Do not feed or touch wild animals
- Avoid contact with strays or pets other than your own
All owners of cats, dogs and livestock should have the vaccination against rabies through their veterinarian or through municipal rabies clinics. For a listing of upcoming free rabies clinics, click here.
For more information, call 908-788-1351. After hours and on weekends, call 908-788-1202. To reach the
Bethlehem Township Animal Control Officer, Laura Roerig, call 908-537-7663.
