Garden State Times

The Camden County Health Department has confirmed a case of rabies in a raccoon found in Gloucester Township, New Jersey. The state Department of Health and Human Services notified the county after testing conducted at the state Public Health & Environmental Laboratories in Trenton identified the presence of the virus.

On October 22, a resident's dog had an encounter with the infected raccoon in their backyard. The local Animal Control Officer collected the animal and sent it for testing. On October 25, confirmation was received that the raccoon was rabid.

The dog involved in the incident was vaccinated against rabies and received a booster shot following the event. It will remain under confinement and observation for 45 days as a precautionary measure. There have been no reported human exposures related to this incident.

Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Health Department, emphasized preventive measures: “Although rabies is a serious illness, it can be prevented by early treatment. If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal it is important that you seek immediate medical attention.”

Betteridge also provided guidance for pet owners and residents on preventing rabies transmission:

- Ensure pets are up-to-date with vaccinations.

- Supervise pets to avoid contact with wild animals.

- Seek veterinary care immediately if your pet is bitten by wildlife.

- Contact local animal control to handle stray animals that may be unvaccinated.

She advised avoiding direct contact with unfamiliar animals and taking precautions when traveling abroad due to higher rabies prevalence in some regions.

Further information about rabies prevention can be accessed through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website or by contacting the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services.