BLAIRSTOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (Warren County) – A raccoon found in Blairstown Township has tested positive for rabies, according to police.
The raccoon had been on Centerville Road, police said on Tuesday.
If you see an animal that is acting strangely stay away as an infected animal can be aggressive, police said.
Below is some other information that police say may be useful:
- Keep an eye on pets when they are outside.
- It is the mating season for racoons, skunks, and foxes so they may be out during the day.
- Distemper can mimic symptoms of rabies.
- You can only be infected by rabies by a bite, brain matter, or saliva entering the body.
If you are bitten, scratched, or have contact with an animal, police offer these tips:
- Immediately wash the wound thoroughly, cleaning and flushing with plenty of soap and water for several minutes.
- Immediately report all animal bites to your animal control, police department or health department for follow-up.
- Identify and continue to observe the animal (if wild or stray) to aid its eventual capture, but do not risk exposure again. Get prompt medical attention.
- Call your family doctor or go to the nearest emergency room.
