HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — A raccoon tested positive for rabies in the Readington Township and Raritan Township area near Lilac Drive and Stanton Station Road, according to the Hunterdon County Department of Health.
Health officials said the adult raccoon tested positive for rabies on Aug. 3.
Residents who may have had contact with the raccoon between July 10 and July 24 are urged to contact their primary care physician immediately or the Hunterdon Medical Center Emergency Room to discuss potential exposure and whether post-exposure prophylaxis treatment is needed.
Officials reminded residents not to pick up stray animals, noting that saliva from infected animals should be considered infectious.
The health department also encouraged owners of cats, dogs and livestock to ensure their animals are vaccinated against rabies through their veterinarian or at a municipal rabies clinic.
A list of upcoming free rabies clinics is available on the Hunterdon County Department of Health website.
For more information, residents may call the Hunterdon County Department of Health at 908-788-1351. After hours and on weekends, call 908-788-1202. To reach the Readington/Raritan Township animal control officer, Animal Control Solutions can be reached at 908-722-1271.
