A raccoon found in Oaklyn has been confirmed to have rabies, according to the Camden County Health Department. Authorities were informed by the state Department of Health and Human Services following testing conducted between April 27 and May 2. The Oaklyn Police Department responded to multiple reports of raccoon activity, leading to the removal and testing of the animal by the state Public Health & Environmental Laboratories in Trenton.
No human or pet exposures to the rabid raccoon have been identified. Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, affiliated with the Camden County Health Department, emphasized the significance of prompt medical treatment in preventing rabies. She advised residents to keep pets vaccinated and to seek veterinary help if bitten by a wild animal.
Betteridge also recommended avoiding interaction with unfamiliar animals, including not feeding or attracting them with unsecured garbage. She warned against adopting or handling wild animals and emphasized teaching children to avoid unfamiliar animals. She highlighted that rabies remains a serious threat in developing regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Further information can be obtained through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services.
