Garden State Times

The Camden County Health Department has confirmed that a skunk found in Gloucester Township tested positive for rabies. This notification came from the state Department of Health and Human Services after testing at the Public Health & Environmental Laboratories in Trenton.

A resident's dog killed the rabid skunk in their backyard. The local Animal Control Officer retrieved the animal for testing. Upon confirmation of rabies, both the officer and the dog's owners were informed. The dog, whose vaccination status was verified, received a rabies booster shot and will be monitored under confinement for 45 days. There have been no reported human exposures to the virus.

Commissioner Virginia Betteridge emphasized that "although rabies is a serious illness, it can be prevented by early treatment." She advised residents who have been bitten or scratched by wild animals to seek immediate medical care.

Betteridge provided guidelines for pet owners to prevent rabies exposure: maintain current vaccinations for pets, supervise them to avoid contact with wildlife, and consult veterinarians if pets are bitten by wild animals. Additionally, she recommended contacting local animal control agencies to handle stray animals that may carry diseases.

She also advised avoiding direct contact with unfamiliar animals: "Enjoy wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes from afar," Betteridge said. She urged against adopting or attempting to nurse sick wild animals back to health and suggested teaching children not to handle unfamiliar animals.

Furthermore, she highlighted preventive measures against bats entering living spaces and cautioned travelers about interactions with dogs in developing countries where rabies is prevalent.

For further information on rabies prevention, residents can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or contact the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services directly.