Raccoon Tests Positive For Rabies After Dogs' Exposure In Somerset County

FAR HILLS, NJ — A raccoon found in Far Hills has tested positive for rabies, according to the Somerset County Department of Health.

The county said the exposure happened on June 15 when a resident's dogs encountered the rabid raccoon in their backyard in the area of Spring Hollow Road and killed it.

The animal was collected by Animal Control Solutions and submitted to the New Jersey Department of Health Public Health Laboratory, where rabies was confirmed.

The dogs are current on their rabies vaccinations and are under quarantine as required by law.

Residents who see an animal acting strangely should stay away and immediately contact their local police department or health department, according to the county health department.

The county also reminded residents that people can get rabies through animal bites or when the saliva of an infected animal enters the body through cuts or scratches.

"While rabies is a serious illness, it is entirely preventable with prompt treatment," said Somerset County Health Officer Himanshi Bhatt. "We encourage all residents to vaccinate their pets and avoid contact with wild or stray animals, especially those that appear sick or are acting unusually."

Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal should promptly wash the area with soap and water and seek medical attention.

If a pet is bitten or scratched, residents should contact a veterinarian promptly.

In either case, the incident should be reported immediately to local police and the local health department.

A list of local health departments in Somerset County is available at bit.ly/MunicHealth.

According to the New Jersey Department of Health, 20 raccoons tested positive for rabies in New Jersey between January and March of this year.

Somerset County is also encouraging pet owners to keep rabies vaccinations up to date.

Information on upcoming rabies vaccination clinics in Somerset County is available at bit.ly/HealthCalendar, and residents can also contact their veterinarian directly.

More information about rabies is available from the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health/cd/topics/rabies.shtml.

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