NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — A raccoon found near the Sussex Branch Trail and East Stuart Street in Newton has tested positive for rabies, according to Newton Animal Control.
Officials are urging residents to avoid contact with raccoons and other wild animals, particularly those that appear sick, injured, unusually friendly or aggressive.
Animal control also recommends that pet owners keep their animals current on rabies vaccinations, supervise pets while outdoors and prevent them from interacting with wildlife. Residents are advised not to attempt to handle or rescue wild animals.
Anyone who has been bitten, scratched or otherwise had contact with a wild animal should contact their health care provider or veterinarian immediately and report the incident to their local health department or animal control agency.
Residents who encounter injured or sick wildlife in Newton should contact the Newton Police Department at 973-383-2525, according to animal control.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans, and is almost always fatal once symptoms develop. The disease is typically transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. Early medical treatment after a potential exposure is highly effective at preventing illness.
