What to Know
- Rabid animal sightings in the tri-state have been somewhat commonplace in recent years
- Rabid animals can display a range of symptoms including foaming at the mouth, aggression and disoriented behavior
- The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death
A New Jersey town is warning residents after a raccoon tested positive for rabies.
The Woodbridge Township Animal Control Division responded to a report of a raccoon acting abnormally near Greco Lane in Woodbridge during the day, unusual for the nocturnal creatures, on Tuesday, authorities say.
An animal control officer managed to capture the raccoon. It died, though how it died is unclear, and its remains were sent to a lab for testing. The results came back positive for rabies on Friday, authorities said.
Officials say there is no evidence the rabid raccoon had come into contact with any person or pet in the area. People who think they may have seen it or come into close contact with it are asked to call the local health department.
Rabid animal sightings in the tri-state have been somewhat commonplace in recent years, with reports of wild, feral and domestic animals contracting the disease. According to the Humane Society, rabid animals can display a range of symptoms including foaming at the mouth, aggression and disoriented behavior.
The rabies virus infects the central nervous system, ultimately causing disease in the brain and death. The early symptoms of rabies in people are similar to that of many other illnesses, including fever, headache, and general weakness or discomfort, according to the CDC.
Anyone who sees an animal acting strangely should call the local health department or animal control. Anyone bitten by such an animal should cleanse the wound immediately and seek medical attention.
