LEBANON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The Hunterdon County Health Department has issued a public health alert after a wild raccoon found in Lebanon Township tested positive for rabies.
The raccoon, which was located in the area of Mountain Top Road, tested positive for rabies on August 1, according to health officials.
Residents who may have had contact with the raccoon between July 16 and July 30 are urged to immediately contact their primary care physician or visit the Hunterdon Medical Center Emergency Room to evaluate the need for post-exposure prophylaxis treatment.
“Saliva from infected animals should be considered infectious,” health officials said, adding that residents should avoid picking up stray animals at any time.
Pet owners should have their cats, dogs and livestock vaccinated by a veterinarian or at municipal rabies clinics. A list of upcoming free rabies clinics is available online.
For more information, contact the Hunterdon County Division of Public Health Services at 908-788-1351. For after-hours or weekend inquiries, call 908-788-1202. To reach Lebanon Township Animal Control Officer, call 908-763-5035.
