A raccoon found in the vicinity of Tyler Avenue and Oak Street in Carteret has tested positive for rabies, according to Middlesex County health officials.
A rabid raccoon was found in Carteret, the first in the borough in 2015, but the 12th in Middlesex County. CARTERET -- A raccoon found in the vicinity of Tyler Avenue and Oak Street in Carteret has tested positive for rabies, according to Middlesex County health officials.
Officials said this is the first case of rabies found in Carteret this year, but the 12th in Middlesex County.
The raccoon was found Saturday in a resident's yard, acting aggressively toward a resident's dogs. The animals fought, officials said and the animal was killed in the fight.
Health officials said the two dogs have been placed on 45 day quarantines and the county health department will be distributing rabies fact sheets within the area.
Health officials said rabies is caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded mammals, including man.
Related: Woodbridge health officials issue rabies alert
They advise residents to immediately report any contact, especially a bite, from a wild or domestic animal to their local health department and report any wild animal showing signs of unusual behavior to local animal control officers or police.
Officials also recommend making sure all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations and animal proof their homes and yards.
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