A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in North Brunswick, the eighth animal to test positive for the disease in Middlesex County this year although the first one for North Brunswick, according to the county's health department.
The first case of rabies in North Brunswick was reported this week, according to Middlesex County health officials who said it was the eighth case of rabies this year in the county NEW BRUNSWICK -- A raccoon has tested positive for rabies in North Brunswick, the eighth animal to test positive for the disease in Middlesex County this year although the first one for North Brunswick, according to the county's health department.
Lester Jones, the county health officer, said North Brunswick's animal control officer responded to a call Saturday about a raccoon who appeared sick with a wobbly gate wandering in a residential area near Old Georges Road and Adams Lane.
Jones said the animal died and was sent to the New Jersey Department of Health Laboratory for testing. He said the animal hade no known human or animal exposure.
The results came back from the laboratory Tuesday positive for rabies.
Jones said the Middlesex County Office of Health Services continues to monitor rabies cases within the municipality. He said residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to the police department.
He said residents should avoid contact with wild animals and immediately report any bites from wild or domestic animals to their local health departments and consult a physician as soon as possible.
Jones also recommends all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and licenses.
The health officer said rabies is caused by a virus, which can infect all warm-blooded mammals, including humans. The virus is found in the saliva of the infected animal and transmitted by a bite, or possibly by contamination of an open cut.
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